Houthi Attacks on Saudi Tankers Escalate Conflict Between Iran and US
The conflict between Iran and the US continues to escalate as Yemen's Houthi rebels launched an attack on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, potentially widening the war. The attacks come after a series of strikes by the US against Iran, which has resulted in the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and disruptions to global trade.
The Houthis' SABA news agency reported that they struck two tankers, the Encelia and the Layla, causing fires on both vessels. No casualties were reported. This is the first reported Houthi attack on a vessel since they announced a blockade of Saudi-linked shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait earlier this week.
The price of Brent crude oil has spiked over 6% to around $100 a barrel, with some analysts attributing it to the escalating conflict. US President Donald Trump has threatened 'major military punishment' against the Houthis if their attacks continue, stating that the US will hold Iran responsible for any further attacks.
The dispute over control of the Strait of Hormuz has led to increased tensions between Iran and the US. Iran has been accused of targeting energy infrastructure and desalination plants in neighboring Gulf countries. The US has responded with a series of airstrikes, which have resulted in civilian casualties and damage to critical infrastructure.