Houthi attacks on Saudi tankers in Red Sea escalate Iran war

Yemen's Houthi rebels have attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, marking a major escalation in the ongoing Iran-US conflict and threatening a second key maritime chokepoint. The attacks on the Encelia and Layla vessels, claimed by the Houthis on July 23, 2026, have drawn threats of 'major military punishment' from US President Donald Trump and condemnation from the European Union.

What happened

The Houthis said they struck the two tankers with missiles and drones for allegedly violating a naval blockade imposed on Saudi Arabia on July 21. UK Maritime Trade Operations confirmed a projectile hit a tanker, causing a fire but no casualties. The Houthis, who control territory near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, have warned they will enforce a 'siege for a siege' equation. The attack is the first since the blockade was announced Source: AP News; BBC.

Reactions

• US response: President Trump vowed to hold Iran responsible as the Houthis' backer, threatening 'major military punishment' against both Iran and the Houthis Source: CNA. The US has conducted 12 consecutive nights of strikes on Iran.
• EU condemnation: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called the attack 'unacceptable and illegal,' urging the Houthis to cease all threats to shipping Source: CNA.
• Regional impact: Oil prices surged past $100 per barrel, and at least nine tankers have altered course to avoid the Bab el-Mandeb Source: SCMP; Euronews.

Broader context

The Houthi attacks compound the disruption caused by Iran's near-closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia had been shipping oil via Red Sea ports, but the new blockade now threatens that route. Analysts warn that simultaneous pressure on two of the world's most vital maritime chokepoints could severely impact global trade Source: AP News.