Yemen’s Houthi Rebels Target Saudi Tankers Amid Rising Regional Tensions
Yemen’s Houthi movement says it has attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea as the United States launched another round of strikes against Iran, escalating tensions across the Middle East.
The Iran-backed group claimed it targeted the tankers Encelia and Layla with drones and missiles, accusing the vessels of violating its announced naval blockade against Saudi Arabia.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the group would continue its maritime operations and maintain what it described as a “siege for a siege” strategy.
If confirmed, the attack would mark the first major Houthi action against Saudi shipping since the group announced a “maritime embargo” targeting Saudi vessels.
Saudi Tanker Hit in Red Sea Attack
Saudi Arabia’s state news agency confirmed that the tanker Encelia was struck while sailing in the Red Sea, causing a fire on the vessel’s bow.
Officials said the incident violated international law but confirmed that all crew members were safe.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) also reported that an unidentified projectile struck a Saudi tanker approximately 130 kilometres from Al Shuqaiq, Saudi Arabia.
The attack caused a fire but no casualties were reported.
British maritime security company Vanguard also confirmed that the Encelia had been hit, while the reported attack on the second tanker, Layla, remains unverified.
US Launches More Strikes on Iran
The tanker attacks came as the United States carried out its 12th consecutive night of strikes against Iran.
US Central Command said the operations were ordered by President Donald Trump to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and civilian vessels operating in regional waters.
The strikes targeted Iranian military facilities, including maritime equipment, missile and drone storage sites, coastal surveillance locations, and air defence systems.
Iranian state media reported that two people were killed in the US strikes, which reportedly hit areas near the country’s southern border with Iraq.
Strait of Hormuz Crisis Deepens
The situation has also intensified around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reportedly said the strait had been completely closed following an explosion in the area.
Iranian state media reported that three oil tankers were prevented from passing through the route, with one vessel catching fire and two others turning back after attempting to cross a mined area.
The developments followed Trump’s warning that the US would respond if Iran attacked ships in the strait.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later warned that Tehran would respond with an “eye for an eye” approach to any attacks on Iran.
Global Shipping Faces New Disruptions
The Houthi threat has raised concerns over further disruption to global shipping and energy markets.
The Red Sea has become increasingly important for oil transportation after instability in the region affected access through the Strait of Hormuz.
Since the Houthi maritime embargo announcement, several oil tankers have reportedly changed course near Yemen.
The continued attacks come as diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran remain stalled despite previous agreements aimed at reducing tensions and reopening key shipping routes.
With military operations continuing and regional alliances becoming more involved, fears are growing that the conflict could further impact global energy supplies and international trade.
