BIMCO has reported that navigation in Yemen’s territorial waters has been banned unless vessels are carrying emergency food and medical aid
BIMCO have reported that entry into Yemen’s territorial waters has been banned. The ban applies to all vessels unless that are carrying emergency food and medical aid, in which case, the ships must be inspected and approved by the Arab State coalition forces currently operating in the region.
Yemen’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs authorized the coalition forces to implement the ban on entry into the territorial waters, stating also that ‘the ban has been imposed on maritime zones.’
As yet, it has not been confirmed what the term ‘maritime zones’ encompasses, therefore ship owners and Masters should seek advice from port agents and P&I clubs if they have any plans to call at Yemeni ports.
For vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea, it is advised that they aim to remain outside of Yemeni territorial waters (12 Nautical Miles) where possible.