Yemen’s Houthi rebels have launched missiles and drones at two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, saying the attack was in response to a blockade of airports and ports in areas they control. They say the attack is part of a “blockade for blockade” strategy. Saudi authorities confirmed that one of the tankers was hit and caught fire, but announced that the crew is safe.
The British Maritime Safety Agency also reported the incident and said the fire on the ship was being brought under control. The new escalation comes after the bombing of Sanaa airport by Saudi-backed forces, which the Houthis claim was the cause of their revenge. They are demanding the lifting of the embargo on Sanaa’s ports and airport.
The attacks are threatening the safety of navigation in the Red Sea, with some ships forced to change their routes, adding to the uncertainty in one of the most important maritime corridors for energy transport.
Experts warn that, with the Strait of Hormuz already affected by regional tensions, any blockage of the Bab al-Mandeb sea route could significantly affect global oil and gas supplies, causing price increases and instability in international markets. /Telegraph