The Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center affiliated with Yemen’s Houthi movement, also known as Ansar Allah, has denied reports that the group intends to impose fees on ships passing through the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

In a statement, the center said transit through the strait remains "free of charge," stressing that no decision has been made or considered regarding the introduction of fees for vessels using the waterway.

The center also said that all ships not covered by the restrictions announced by the group can continue to pass safely, adding that its "safe passage" service for ships and companies seeking additional assurances regarding navigation in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait, Gulf of Aden, and Arabian Sea is a "free and optional" service available through the center’s official channels.

The center warned against individuals or entities requesting payments in exchange for issuing transit permits or guaranteeing the passage of vessels, saying they do not represent the authorities in Sanaa.

It called on shipping companies not to pay any fees and to report any such attempts, while urging media outlets to verify information and avoid publishing claims related to vessel movements before confirming them through official channels.