Yemeni Iran-backed Houthis have admitted their role behind the attack on two Saudi Arabia oil tankers sailing through the Red Sea region, increasing regional tensions over one of the most strategic waterways in the world.
As per Yahya Saree, spokesman of Houthi military, the attacks were conducted on two Saudi Arabia oil tankers, named Encelia and Layla, who were violating the maritime blockade called by the Houthi armed forces. This incident is now considered as one of the prominent topics in Saudi Arabia News, BRICS News and TOP News.
“The attacks were made on the two Saudi Arabia oil tankers named Encelia and Layla, who were violating the maritime blockade announced by us,” Yahya Saree, Houthi spokesperson said. “The mission involved ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones which started fires in the ships,” he added.
Also, according to the Houthis, several commercial ships changed course or returned back due to security issues in the Red Sea region.
Saudi Authorities Confirm Incident
Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority admitted that the tanker ship Encelia was hit while on its course. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), all personnel on board the ship were confirmed to be safe after the event.
The Saudi authorities termed this attack as a breach of international maritime law and stressed that the safety of commercial ships and civilians needs to be ensured by international treaties.
UK Maritime Agency Reports Tanker Fire
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed receiving reports from a tanker that had been hit by an unidentified projectile.
According to UKMTO, the vessel’s captain reported a fire onboard, with crew members working to contain the blaze. Maritime authorities continue monitoring the situation as commercial shipping remains on alert.
Rising Tensions in the Red Sea
This development has been caused by the Houthis placing a blockade in the waters around Saudi Arabia after the resumption of hostilities in Yemen. It is argued that this is aimed at forcing Saudi Arabia to remove the blockades placed by it in the ports and air space of Yemen.
On the other hand, Saudi Arabia has outright rejected the charges against it and continues to support the internationally recognized government in Yemen.
The Red Sea forms one of the most vital transport routes connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Thus, the blockade of these waters becomes a matter of concern to international trade.
The Bab al-Mandeb Strait is a critical chokepoint linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Daily, millions of barrels of crude oil pass through this waterway.
Global Impact on Energy and Shipping
The attacks are taking place against a backdrop of increasing tension throughout the Middle East and worries about the safety of shipping lanes. In light of pressure being applied to maritime transportation within the region, any increase in tension near the Red Sea could have far-reaching economic implications.
Shipping firms and international maritime agencies are watching events carefully as attempts are made to find a diplomatic solution to ease regional tensions.
Conclusion
Attacks on the Saudi oil tankers have been described as another step up in the existing conflict between the Yemeni Houthis and Saudi Arabia. As investigations are still going on and all eyes are on the development, there are fears about the security of the shipping vessels transiting through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Straits.
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