Houthi Attacks Suspend al-Makha Port Operations, Devastating Local Workforce and Trade

What happened

Al Jazeera Yemen reports that Houthi missile and drone strikes targeting al-Makha port on August 9 and subsequent days have killed at least 16 people and injured over 30, including both workers and seamen, leading to a suspension of port operations for safety. The attacks have caused significant damage to the port infrastructure, including commercial and service areas, workshops, equipment, and the pier, according to Abdulmalik Al-Sharabi, the port director.

Outside Brief is treating this as a source-led account. Any disputed responsibility, casualty figure, battlefield claim or single-source assertion should be treated as unconfirmed/hearsay unless confirmed by another reliable source or a named official. The closure of the port has left more than 1,500 daily wage workers unemployed, as the facility was a major local employer since its reopening in 2021. Labourers like Mohammed Al-Homaidi express deep concerns over income loss and the struggle to provide basic needs, with no alternative work options due to the instability and ongoing strikes around the Red Sea.

Fishing, another key livelihood for the community, is also severely affected. Local authorities have banned fishermen from going out to sea amid security risks after recent attacks, though some fishermen took the risk and went missing following an August 11 outing. Families remain desperate for information on their whereabouts.

Known from the source

• Al-Makha port was targeted by multiple missile and drone strikes starting August 9, described as carried out by Houthi forces.
• At least 16 people have been reported killed and over 30 injured, including workers and seamen.
• The port’s operations have been suspended due to damage and safety concerns, affecting around 1,500 workers.
• The port had reopened in 2021 after being closed between 2015 and 2021.
• Fishing activities around al-Makha are suspended by local authorities due to security risks.

What remains unclear

The port’s closure affects a wider economic geography, disrupting imports that serve Taiz, Lahj, Hodeidah, and Ibb governorates. Traders now face higher logistical costs by rerouting shipments through the port of Aden. The ongoing conflict and near-daily strikes have also shut down public spaces and communications, leaving many residents isolated without reliable landline or mobile networks.

What remains unclear: Confirm whether the central claim is corroborated; until then treat it as unconfirmed/hearsay. Precise casualty figures and official confirmations of attack responsibility. Independent verification of damage extent to port infrastructure. Clarification on the identities and affiliations of attackers beyond Houthi claims.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: Al Jazeera Yemen. Open the source.