A Houthi-run group in Yemen has denied reports that it plans to charge money to cargo ships passing through the Bab el-Mandeb strait. In an official statement, the group said no fee decision was made and that sailing through the area remains completely free.

This statement came after a report by Reuters said the group was thinking about charging ships in the southern Red Sea. That report said the idea was discussed with Iranian officials in July, but no clear plan or start date was set.

The Houthi group, called the HOCC, stated that its service to help ships pass safely is free and voluntary. They added that anyone asking for money to let ships go through does not speak for them or for Yemen.

Finally, the group warned shipping companies not to pay anyone asking for fees. They told companies not to share ship information or send money to unauthorized people claiming to collect payments.