- Larger shipping companies have maintained elevated representation in Bab el Mandeb traffic despite renewed Houthi threats.
- Greece- and China-affiliated vessels remain the most frequent users, though traffic dipped following early July attacks.
- Houthis issued sanctions threats to 64 unnamed companies, warning that entire fleets could be targeted.
The profile of vessels transiting the Bab el Mandeb has remained consistent in recent months, despite heightened security concerns. According to Lloyd’s List Intelligence data, China- and Greece-affiliated vessels—through flag or ownership—accounted for 27% and 18% of southern Red Sea transits in July 2025, respectively.
Greece-affiliated traffic saw a notable rebound in March, coinciding with a period of relative stability, rising to 161 transits from 112 in February. July recorded 165 transits. However, following the Houthi missile attacks on Greece-owned bulk carriers Magic Seas and Eternity C on July 6–7, Greece-affiliated transits dropped by 40% over the subsequent two weeks.
Impact of July Attacks
Overall traffic volumes also declined in the aftermath of the July attacks, with 392 transits recorded from July 14–27—down 18% from the 479 transits in the preceding two weeks. While the decline is notable, volumes remain within the “new normal” range seen since the Red Sea crisis began.
Evidence suggests that several owners who had resumed Bab el Mandeb transits in recent months—after previously diverting via the Cape of Good Hope—continued to use the route despite the renewed violence. Larger companies, in particular, are still operating at higher levels than during the peak disruption period, with 106 major operators active in July compared to 91 in December.
Houthi Sanctions Threats
On August 6, the Houthis, via their Humanitarian Operations Co-ordination Center, announced that sanctions notices had been sent to 64 companies accused of violating a naval blockade on Israel. The group stated that all vessels belonging to these companies—not just those calling at Israeli ports—were at risk.
The Houthis did not identify the targeted companies, nor update their public sanctions list. They also warned of potential expansion of sanctions to entities engaging with listed companies.
Operational Guidance
The Joint Maritime Information Centre advises all operators planning to transit the Bab el Mandeb to conduct comprehensive reviews of their business structures and past voyages to identify any links that could expose their vessels to heightened risk.
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Source: Lloyd’s List
