New Delhi, August 5: The Houthi group has claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile attack on a Saudi oil tanker in the northern Red Sea. They announced plans to escalate their campaign against vessels linked to Saudi Arabia.
In a statement broadcast on Houthi-operated Al-Masirah TV, military spokesperson Yahya Saree reported that the tanker named ‘Wafa’ was targeted near the coastal city of Yanbu, a key port in Saudi Arabia.
Saree described the attack as precise but did not provide details on potential damages or casualties. He stated that this action is part of their ongoing campaign against Saudi-linked ships, which he referred to as “blockade in response to blockade.”
Since the beginning of this campaign, Houthi forces have reportedly targeted eight Saudi oil tankers, forcing 29 others to alter their routes and return. However, these claims have not been independently verified, and there has been no immediate response from Saudi officials.
This announcement comes amid rising tensions between the Houthi group and Saudi Arabia. In July, the Houthis declared a maritime blockade against Saudi-linked vessels, asserting that it was a response to the Saudi blockade of Houthi-controlled areas.
These escalating tensions have raised concerns about the security of the Red Sea and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, which are considered some of the world’s most crucial maritime trade routes.
Meanwhile, Yemen’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack on the Indian commercial vessel ‘MSV Faiz Noor-e-Olia’ in the Red Sea. The ministry labeled it a “terrorist attack” and a blatant violation of international law and maritime regulations.
In a statement on X, the ministry expressed solidarity with India and stated that it is in continuous contact with Indian authorities to provide necessary assistance and support to the crew.
The Yemeni Foreign Ministry stated, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Republic of Yemen strongly condemns the Houthi terrorist attack on the Indian commercial vessel ‘MSV Faiz Noor-e-Olia.’ This attack, using an explosive-laden boat while the vessel was traveling in the Red Sea, resulted in the complete sinking of the ship. It represents a serious violation of international law and poses a direct threat to maritime traffic safety, secure navigation, and freedom of trade in international waterways.”
This statement follows a response issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday evening, which condemned the attack and confirmed that all 13 Indian nationals aboard the vessel were safely rescued.
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