Houthis Escalate Conflict with Ballistic Missile Strike on Saudi Oil Tanker

Tensions in the Red Sea have escalated after Yemen's Houthi forces launched ballistic missiles at a Saudi oil tanker, breaching their declared maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia. The Iran-aligned Houthis claim the vessel ignored warning calls and was forced to change course.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency reported an explosion heard by the master of another tanker transiting the southern Red Sea.

The Saudi-led coalition responded by targeting Houthi military sites in Yemen's Hodeidah governorate, citing threats to commercial shipping.

This development adds complexity to the ongoing Gulf conflict, impacting global supply routes.