Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center Clarifies Free Transit Through Bab al-Mandab Strait

Sana'a: The Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) has officially denied reports suggesting that the Republic of Yemen plans to impose fees on ships transiting through the Bab al-Mandab Strait. According to Yemen News Agency, the HOCC issued a press statement on Saturday affirming that there has been no decision, nor consideration, to levy transit fees for ships passing through the strait. The Center emphasized that the transit remains free of charge, countering misinformation circulating on various media platforms. The HOCC reiterated that its services, including the safe passage service, are complimentary and optional. These services are accessible to ships or companies outside the declared blockade area wishing to confirm safe passage through the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab, the Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea. Additionally, the Center stressed that all ships outside the blockade zone can transit safely without any fees. For further assurance of safe passage, ships can send a request to cleara [email protected] and expect a response within hours. The HOCC cautioned that any entity demanding payment for passage through the Bab al-Mandab Strait does not represent Yemen or the HOCC. The Center advised shipping companies to avoid making payments or sharing information with unauthorized parties. The Center warned against unauthorized use of its name or logo to collect fees and urged anyone confronted with such demands to document the incident safely and report it to [email protected], including all relevant details and evidence. The HOCC appealed to media outlets to uphold professional standards, verify information through official channels, and avoid spreading unverified news concerning transit through the Bab al-Mandab Strait. For inquiries, the HOCC is available via email at [email protected] and committed to providing responses and clarifications promptly.