Iran-US Conflict Escalates as Yemen's Houthi Rebels Attack Saudi Oil Tankers
The conflict between the US and Iran has escalated as Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, setting fires on both vessels. This development threatens to open a new front in the war that has already disrupted global energy markets.
The attack comes as the US military conducted its 12th night of strikes against Iran, with President Donald Trump warning that the US would destroy one bridge or power plant for each Iranian target struck at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command stated that their strikes are aimed at 'further degrading' Iran's ability to threaten civilian mariners and commercial vessels.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of global traded oil passes, has already sent shockwaves through the world economy. With no signs of progress in diplomatic efforts to end the conflict, both sides are digging in on their dispute over control of the strait.