Yemen's Houthi group claimed on Wednesday evening that it had attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea using missiles and drones. The group identified the vessels as Encelia and Layla. Saudi authorities had yet to confirm the attacks, though state media later reported that the Encelia was targeted and suffered a fire at the bow, with all crew safe. The attack on the Layla remained unconfirmed.
Brent crude futures traded above $100 per barrel for the first time since May, reflecting growing supply disruption fears.
According to a Houthi spokesman, nearly 10 vessels were forced to turn back as a result of the attacks. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a tanker was struck by a projectile about 70 nautical miles southwest of Jizan, causing a fire. British maritime risk group Vanguard also reported that the Encelia was hit. The Houthis had announced a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia on Monday, citing retaliation for a blockade on Yemen and an attack on Sanaa International Airport.
According to claim 6 and 13, the attacks are the first since the Houthis announced the blockade, raising fears of economic disruption. Per claims 19 and 63, the Bab al-Mandab strait, which sees 12% of world trade, could become a new chokepoint. Analysts say the Houthi actions are shaping who moves Saudi crude rather than whether it moves. According to claims 24 and 5, two China-owned supertankers loaded with Saudi crude continued sailing toward the strait despite the attacks, while other tankers made U-turns.
The United States Central Command stated that the US launched new attacks on Iran, including its 12th consecutive night of strikes, targeting maritime assets, missile and drone storage sites, and air defense systems. US President Donald Trump threatened the Houthis with 'major military punishment'. Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced they had stopped three oil tankers attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz, and Tehran warned of an 'eye for an eye' response.
The Saudi-led coalition vowed a 'firm and forceful' response and began measures to protect vessels transiting the Bab al-Mandab. The UK government condemned the strikes, and Germany's Chancellor Merz said they 'jeopardize freedom of navigation.' The UN envoy for Yemen expressed alarm and called for talks. A Houthi spokesman warned that any attack on Yemen would be met with major operations deep inside Saudi territory.