Egypt has opposed the proposal from Yemen's Ansar Allah movement (Houthis) for direct communication and coordination regarding the security and movement of ships in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea. This issue was recently raised by a senior Egyptian source who stated that Osama Rabie, the head of the Suez Canal Authority, has rejected this request.
Details of the Houthi Proposal
The Houthi proposal was conveyed to the Egyptian side through the International Maritime Organization in London. The Houthis called for cooperation with the Suez Canal Authority and relevant port and shipping agencies to develop mechanisms to ensure the security of ship passage in Bab-el-Mandeb. According to the mentioned source, Egypt does not want to grant any form of "implicit recognition" to the Houthis, who are not internationally recognized, by establishing formal communication.
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Egypt's Reaction and Its Consequences
This source added that the Houthi proposal has been referred to Egypt's security agencies to address the issue outside the framework of official institutions. The aim of this action is to prevent attacks on ships, ensure freedom of navigation, and maintain the security of ship crews. Cairo continues to recognize only the legitimate government of Yemen and seems to be pursuing this approach to prevent the Houthis' control over areas around Bab-el-Mandeb from becoming a lasting threat to international shipping and energy security.
Given the strategic importance of Bab-el-Mandeb and the Suez Canal, this issue could have consequences beyond the region. Egypt is seeking to prevent any developments that may impact the security of international shipping.
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