Houthis Attack Saudi Tankers in Red Sea Naval Blockade
Houthi rebels launched missiles and drones at two Saudi-bound oil tankers in the Red Sea, sparking widespread international condemnation and warnings of global supply chain disruptions.
The Houthi movement launched ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones on July 23, 2026, targeting two Saudi-bound oil tankers, the Encelia and the Layla, in the Red Sea. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea stated the vessels were targeted for violating a group-imposed embargo on ships docking at Saudi ports. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations confirmed a strike southwest of Al Shuqaiq, Saudi Arabia, which caused a fire aboard the Encelia.
International reactions were swift and condemnatory. International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez described the attacks as "indefensible," while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the escalation risks drawing Yemen into a broader regional conflict. The African Union and the Arab Parliament expressed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia, noting that the attacks threaten global energy supplies and strategic maritime corridors.
Diplomatic responses included condemnations from the Greek and Indonesian foreign ministries, both of which cited violations of international law and the principle of freedom of navigation. Greece reaffirmed its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia, noting its continued deployment of a PATRIOT missile battery in Yanbu. While commercial shipping continues, data from Kpler indicates that vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped to its lowest level in two months.
