Tanker Damaged by Unknown Projectile off Saudi Arabia's Yanbu
A tanker vessel was damaged by an unknown projectile off the coast of Saudi Arabia's port city of Yanbu, sparking a fire on its main deck. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations, the incident occurred approximately 63 nautical miles west of Yanbu.
The crew members were safely accounted for with no reported environmental impact from the incident. The port of Yanbu is crucial for Saudi Arabia's oil exports, serving as a major route for shipping oil through the Red Sea and around the Strait of Hormuz, which has been blockaded by Iran.
The attack follows recent disruptions to shipping in the region due to Yemen's Houthi rebels declaring a blockade on Saudi-linked vessels in the Red Sea last month. The Houthis have previously claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi oil facilities and shipping in the area.