Saudi Arabia seeks coalition as Houthi Red Sea blockade escalates

Saudi Arabia is seeking to build an international coalition to protect Red Sea shipping after Yemen's Houthi movement announced a maritime blockade on the kingdom on July 20, targeting vessels and oil infrastructure. The Houthis have since launched missiles at Saudi tankers and oil facilities, while Saudi jets struck Houthi-held Hodeidah port. Source: Al Jazeera, CNN

What happened

The Houthi blockade aims to mimic Iran's strategy in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Yemen's internationally recognised government. Source: Al Jazeera The group demanded an end to Saudi Arabia's economic and air blockade on Houthi-controlled areas. Attacks have damaged oil complexes near Jazan, and satellite imagery shows extensive damage. Source: CNN Saudi Arabia has rerouted much of its oil exports through Red Sea ports after Hormuz was effectively closed in March.

Regional fallout

Saudi Arabia faces threats from three directions: Houthi missiles from Yemen, drone attacks from pro-Iranian militias in Iraq, and renewed Iranian threats. Source: CNN The kingdom has stressed de-escalation with Gulf allies, but also carried out joint strikes with the US in Iraq. Source: Al Jazeera, CNN Pakistan, a strategic defense partner, condemned the attacks and warned of "lawful use of force" but faces a delicate balancing act given its ties with Iran. Source: DW

Global impact

The blockade has worsened Asia's energy crisis, with countries like Japan and South Korea scrambling for supply after Hormuz closure. Source: The Guardian War risk premiums for tankers have doubled, and shipping through Bab al-Mandeb has fallen sharply. Analysts warn that global reserve capacity is being stretched. Source: The Guardian