Houthi Attack Widens Iran War as Oil Prices Surge Past $100 a Barrel
The conflict between Iran and the US has escalated further as Yemen's Houthi rebels attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, potentially widening the war.
The Houthis' SABA news agency reported that the rebels struck the Encelia and Layla tankers in the Red Sea, causing fires on both vessels. The Saudi Press Agency confirmed that the Encelia was set ablaze overnight.
The attack has raised concerns about the safety of oil shipments from Saudi Arabia's Yanbu port on the Red Sea, which is currently being used as an alternative route due to the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement, President Donald Trump threatened 'major military punishment' against the Houthis if their attacks continue, adding that US forces will seize Iranian funds to cover damages done to ships and cargo.