News – Middle East: Gedun Golbar, Executive Director of the occupied port of Eilat, highlighted the incapacity of Israel and the US-British coalition in confronting Yemeni attacks, resulting in a complete shutdown of activities at the port. Golbar emphasized that Yemeni threats have only strengthened over time, leading shipping companies to distrust the coalition's ability to protect their vessels, preventing the resumption of voyages through the Red Sea. Despite compensation from the Israeli government, the port management still faces significant monthly losses due to the closure.

A report by the Hebrew economic website Calcalist, translated by Almasirah newspaper, noted that Yemeni threats to Israel began following the Iron Swords operation in Gaza, focusing particularly on Eilat. The port, once prosperous, now stands empty due to threats to ship movement in the Red Sea, with workers facing potential dismissal and the looming threat of nationalization.

Golbar reported a drastic decline in port activity, with only a few bulk cargo ships received since November. He refuted accusations of mismanagement, attributing the port's plight to Yemeni actions and coalition weakness.

Despite suggestions of international intervention, Golbar expressed skepticism, citing shipping companies' reluctance to trust coalition countries and bear the associated risks and high insurance costs.

Regarding alternative routes, Golbar doubted the feasibility of bypassing the Suez Canal, anticipating increased costs and logistical challenges. He highlighted the port's strategic importance as a national infrastructure, emphasizing its role in facilitating trade for Israel.

The economic impact extends beyond the port, affecting the city of Eilat, heavily reliant on tourism. With dwindling tourist numbers amid war and pandemic-related challenges, the port serves as a vital economic anchor.

Golbar underscored the port's significance in importing cars to Israel, citing cost advantages and operational efficiency compared to other ports. Additionally, the port facilitates exports, particularly of potassium, further highlighting its importance in regional trade.`

Yemenis have declared their open support for Palestine’s struggle against the Israeli occupation since the regime launched a devastating war on Gaza on October 7 after the territory’s Palestinian resistance movements carried out the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm.

The Yemeni Armed Forces have said they won’t stop retaliatory strikes.

The maritime attacks have forced some of the world’s biggest shipping and oil companies to suspend transit through one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes.

Tankers are instead adding thousands of miles to international shipping routes by sailing around the continent of Africa rather than going through the Suez Canal.