The Israeli Port of Eilat Requests Egypt's Help to Stop Houthi Threats to Navigation

An Israeli report revealed that the Port of Eilat requested Egypt's support to pressure the Houthis to stop launching rockets at the port and threatening passing ships through the Suez Canal.

The newspapers "Yedioth Ahronoth" and "Calcalist" explained that the Port of Eilat is still suffering from the impact of Houthi attacks despite the official ceasefire, which has led to an 80% decrease in its activity and revenues since November 2023. Reports confirmed that port officials contacted the American embassy in Israel and also requested cooperation with the Egyptian government to convince the Houthis to lift the blockade on maritime navigation.

The Hebrew newspapers mentioned that the Houthis had previously threatened any shipping company that passes through their ships without permission, stating that it would become a target, which led to international shipping companies refraining from passing through the Suez Canal or reaching the Port of Eilat and Arab countries.

Reports indicated that the Port of Eilat hopes for Egypt's cooperation, as the owner of the Suez Canal, with Arab countries and the United States to pressure the Houthis and protect navigation. The newspapers confirmed that the current situation has affected Egypt's revenues from the canal, which decreased from $10.25 billion in 2023 to $3.99 billion in 2024, posing a significant challenge to the Egyptian economy.

In support of the Port of Eilat, Israel transferred about 15 million shekels to cover the port's debts and property taxes, while the Israeli labor union provided loans to support it. However, the port continues its efforts to return to full activity and achieve profitability, not just to continue operating.