Live export ship to remain in WA with 15,000 livestock after regulator blocks voyage to Jordan

Government says plan for MV Bahijah to sail around Africa to avoid Houthi attacks in Red Sea mean it's not safe for the animals

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The controversial live export industry has been dealt a blow after the federal government denied an application to re-export more than 15,000 sheep and cattle stranded off the coast of Western Australia.

The Israeli-owned MV Bahijah was ordered by government officials on 20 January to return to Western Australia 15 days into a live export voyage to Jordan because of fears about attacks on shipping in the Red Sea by Houthi rebels.