The local authority in the Al-Mudariyah and Ras Al-Ara district of Lahj Governorate, southern Yemen, has announced the complete and immediate closure of the Ras Al-Ara maritime port. The decision, effective Sunday, June 7, 2026, was issued under directives from the President of the Presidential Leadership Council, the Prime Minister, and the Governor of Lahj Governorate. According to the issued document, the closure aims to stabilize security conditions and address existing irregularities along the governorate's coastline. It also stipulates the cessation of all commercial activities through the port, including imports and exports, and prohibits the direct entry or exit of any goods. The local authority has instructed port management and security agencies to inform agents, suppliers, and merchants to immediately halt their commercial operations and comply with security measures related to the closure. The directive exempts shipments that departed from neighboring countries' ports prior to the issuance of the directives. A two-week grace period, ending June 20 of the current month, has been granted for the reception of these goods. No new shipments will be accepted after this date. The local authority, citing the document, indicated that the higher authorities issuing the directives bear responsibility for the consequences of the decision. It was noted that the port closure could impact the living conditions and development in the region. The authority also warned that the measure might disrupt some service projects, affect the operations of several health facilities, and potentially lead to the closure of some educational institutions, given the port's significance as a primary source of resources and services in the area. Observers suggest that the complete closure of the maritime port stems from security and regulatory reasons, forming part of the state's efforts to combat various smuggling operations that have become active in the coastal region recently. |
