New Delhi, July 20 -- SANAA - Yemen's Houthi movement declared a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia on Monday, with military spokesman Yahya Saree announcing through the group's Al-Masirah television channel that a ban on Saudi-linked maritime navigation "has entered into force from the moment of issuing this statement."

Saudi Arabia had not publicly responded to the declaration by the time of publication.

The announcement came with a pointed warning. Saree said any escalation by Saudi forces would trigger what he called "a comprehensive and severe escalation" from the Houthis in response, language suggesting the group intends the blockade not merely as political signaling but as a posture it is prepared to enforce.

The declaration...