Houthis Strike Saudi Oil Vessel as Iran-US Tensions Escalate
US-Iran tensions are escalating as Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis claim to have targeted a Saudi oil vessel in the Gulf of Aden. The strike is part of efforts by the Houthis to enforce what they describe as a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, according to their military spokesperson.
The attack has added to concerns over global energy supplies and regional stability. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly urged US President Donald Trump to delay military action and pursue negotiations instead. Trump said he prefers a deal with Iran over military action, but warned that if talks fail, Iran would be hit 'really hard'.
Tehran has stepped up diplomatic efforts to avert another round of US strikes, warning Gulf states that any attack on its territory would trigger retaliatory attacks on critical energy infrastructure across the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi held urgent talks with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkiye, and Pakistan, urging them to persuade Washington to avoid another military offensive.
Oil prices remain volatile as traders balance hopes of a diplomatic breakthrough against continued uncertainty over shipping security. The proposed Hormuz arrangement between Iran and Oman remains incomplete, with disagreements persisting over the extent of Iran's control over commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.