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Written question asked by James McMurdock (Independent (affiliation)) on Friday, 11 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 15 September 2026. It was answered by Stephen Doughty (Labour) on Monday, 21 September 2026 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Shipping: Houthis

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to his Department's document entitled The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their continued strikes on Saudi Arabia: UK statement at the UN Security Council, published on 10 September 2026, what recent discussions he has had with international shipping and maritime security partners on contingency measures to maintain freedom of navigation through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb.

Answer

The Houthis' decision to resume conflict in Yemen, attack Government of Yemen positions, advance towards the Bab al-Mandeb, and launch strikes against Saudi Arabia is reckless and unacceptable, following years of efforts to constructively engage them in dialogue towards peace. It has endangered and displaced innocent civilians, undermines regional stability, and threatens one of the world's most important trade routes.

The Bab al-Mandeb Strait connects the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, a crucial maritime corridor for a significant proportion of global trade. Any disruption therefore increases costs for businesses, undermines supply chains and puts further pressure on the UK economy. This is why our focus remains on helping to protect civilians, supporting regional stability and encouraging de-escalation. The UK continues to work closely with like-minded partners on maritime security and efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
29328
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
International cooperation Trade Shipping Red Sea Houthis
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk