Speaking during the demonstration in Sabeen Square, supporter Mujeeb al-Blaihi said the blockade was a direct response to Saudi Arabia’s policies towards Yemen. “The decision is wise in response to the Saudi aggression and its blockade. They have blockaded us for 12 years,” he said, adding: “A blockade for blockade, airports for airports and ports for ports.” Another demonstrator, Abdullah al-Asouli, said Yemenis had long demanded the reopening of airports and seaports and voiced support for the Houthi armed forces.
Saudi Arabia has rejected the Houthis’ accusations, condemning the maritime blockade and denying that it has imposed a siege on the Yemeni people. Riyadh said it has worked alongside Yemen’s internationally recognised government to ease humanitarian suffering through development assistance, budgetary support and fuel supplies for electricity generation.
The Kingdom also said that during the first half of 2026, the ports of Hodeidah, as-Salif and Ras Isa in northern Yemen received more than 300 ships carrying food, fuel, construction materials and other essential goods. The exchange highlights growing tensions in the Red Sea as the wider regional conflict continues to expand beyond Iran and the Gulf.