Houthi Threats Disrupt Saudi Oil Logistics Again

Saudi Arabia's oil logistics have been disrupted again due to Yemen's Houthi rebels threatening the Red Sea route, forcing the kingdom to reroute its tankers around Africa.

The Houthis' actions have made it difficult for Saudi Arabia to use a backup route that has been crucial to the global economy since the Iran war started in 2026.

To avoid the narrow strait near Yemen at the southern end of the Red Sea, millions of barrels of Saudi crude are being transported north across the Red Sea instead. This is resulting in tankers taking thousands of miles longer journey around Africa to reach their destinations.