Houthis Claim Attack on Saudi Oil Tankers as Middle East Tensions Continue
Growing tensions in the Middle East continued on Thursday after Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, while the United States carried out another round of military strikes targeting sites in Iran.
Houthis Claim Red Sea Tanker Attacks
The Houthis said they targeted two Saudi-linked oil tankers, Encelia and Layla, using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. The group claimed the vessels had violated a naval blockade it had announced for Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea.
Saudi authorities confirmed that one tanker caught fire during the incident. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the vessel Encelia suffered damage that caused a fire near the front of the ship. Officials said all crew members were safely evacuated, and emergency teams quickly secured the vessel while taking steps to prevent environmental damage.
Maritime Agencies Report Incident
A maritime security source reported that the tanker sent a distress signal after being struck by an unknown projectile while operating near Saudi Arabia’s Jizan port in the Red Sea.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) also confirmed receiving reports of a tanker being hit in the same area. According to the agency, the crew managed to fight the onboard fire, with no casualties or pollution reported.
Private maritime security firm Vanguard said the attack occurred roughly 130 kilometers southwest of Al Shuqaiq, Saudi Arabia, and noted that reports regarding a second vessel were still being verified.
The Houthis also claimed that several commercial ships turned back following the attacks, though these claims have not been independently confirmed.
Pakistan Condemns Threats to Maritime Trade
A day earlier, Pakistan strongly condemned threats against commercial shipping and Saudi Arabia, warning that any hostile action affecting Pakistan’s maritime interests would be viewed as a serious national security concern.
The Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait remain vital trade routes for Pakistan, as a significant portion of the country’s energy imports passes through the region.
US Conducts Fresh Strikes on Iran
Separately, the United States launched another series of military strikes on Iranian targets, marking the 12th consecutive day of operations.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes targeted military facilities, missile and drone storage sites, coastal surveillance systems, air defense positions, and maritime capabilities.
US officials said the operations are intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and regional security.
CENTCOM also stated that several commercial vessels have been redirected during ongoing naval operations in the region.
Regional Situation Remains Uncertain
The latest developments highlight continued instability across the Middle East, with maritime security remaining a key concern for regional and international trade.
Authorities and international shipping organizations continue to monitor the situation closely as commercial vessels operate through one of the world’s busiest energy transit routes.
