Houthi missiles hit Mokha port; Yemen reports $16m damage

Six ballistic missiles struck the Red Sea port of Mokha on Aug. 16, leading authorities to halt port activity immediately as inspections begin, Yemen’s internationally recognised government said.

Officials said the attack caused an initial damage estimate of about $16 million and that the strike destroyed commercial vessels, damaged warehouses, and resulted in deaths among civilians and security personnel. They added that video footage showed boats burning inside the port area.

Mokha port operations suspended as inspections start

Authorities said port operations were suspended while the Authorities said port operations were suspended while the extent of damage is assessed. Officials said inspections are under way across berths and terminal infrastructure to confirm safety conditions and to establish repair timelines before vessels are allowed to return. The government described the $16 million figure as a preliminary estimate linked to the Aug. 16 attack. Officials did not provide a reopening date in the statements cited in the account, leaving the port’s near-term operating status unclear. Divergent claims over targets and casualties The Houthis separately said they targeted a military build-up and warships belonging to Saudi-backed government forces. The group’s statement was presented apart from the government’s account of the incident.

Officials said the two versions differ on both the intended targets and the reported casualties. The government’s statement emphasized damage to commercial vessels and port facilities, while also reporting fatalities among civilians and security personnel.

Shipping concerns tied to the length of the shutdown Officials said the next operational steps depend on the condition of berths and terminal infrastructure and on requirements to restore safe access for shipping. Market reaction was described as pending in the account.

The scenario outlined in the source material said that if the suspension lasts, or if vessels are rerouted around the Bab al-Mandeb, voyage times and freight costs would rise and insurance premiums could increase. The same scenario noted that this would raise the cost of shipping crude and refined products through the route.

Updates expected by Aug. 18; reopening timeline still unclear Authorities are expected to issue official updates and notices to mariners by Aug. 18, according to the account. Officials are also expected to announce a timeline for reopening and provide additional damage reporting within 48 hours.

Until inspections are completed and conditions are clarified, officials said repair timelines remain under review and Mokha port’s operational status remains uncertain.