The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly condemned threats by Yemen’s Houthi rebels against maritime traffic to and from Saudi Arabia, reaffirming Greece’s commitment to regional stability and its strategic partnership with the Kingdom.
Greek Statement Emphasizes International Law and Diplomacy
In a statement issued on Thursday, 23 July 2026, the ministry underscored that the protection of freedom of navigation — enshrined in international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) — remains a fundamental priority. Greece affirmed the pivotal role of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states in bolstering regional security, stability, and global economic resilience.
The statement also reiterated Greece’s full support for UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg’s efforts to achieve an inclusive, Yemeni-led political settlement through negotiations. “Dialogue and diplomacy remain the only sustainable path toward a lasting political solution in Yemen,” the ministry stressed.
Shipping Activity Continues Amid Tensions
Despite recent Houthi attacks on two tankers linked to Saudi Arabia — the Encelia and Layla — commercial shipping in the Red Sea continues largely unimpeded. According to maritime data firm Kpler, 26 bulk carriers passed through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait yesterday — down from 18 earlier in the day, and marking the lowest daily count in the past two months.
Two super-tankers that loaded in Saudi Arabia departed the Red Sea today via Bab el-Mandeb. One had briefly reversed course following Houthi threats but ultimately resumed its planned route. Both vessels are bound for China.
Greek Military Presence in Yanbu
Greece maintains a long-standing military presence in the Saudi port city of Yanbu. Since 2021, the Hellenic Armed Forces’ Saudi Arabia Contingent (ELDYSA) has deployed a PATRIOT missile defense battery there, underscoring the depth of bilateral defense cooperation.
Houthi Claims and Saudi Response
The Iran-backed Houthis claimed responsibility for what they described as a “military operation” targeting the two tankers, accusing them of violating a naval blockade imposed on Saudi Arabia. A Saudi official confirmed that the Encelia, owned by a Saudi company, was struck and suffered a fire — though no casualties were reported.