Huthi rebels impose Red Sea blockade on Saudi Arabia, forcing oil tankers to turn back

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Huthi rebels impose Red Sea blockade on Saudi Arabia, forcing oil tankers to turn back
Houthi rebels impose naval blockade on Saudi Arabia in retaliation for Sanaa airport attack
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The Huthi rebels in Yemen have announced a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, escalating tensions and disrupting global oil shipments. The blockade, which took immediate effect, was announced by Huthi spokesperson Jahja Sari in a video message on Monday. Sari stated that the blockade is a response to what the Huthis describe as a prolonged and unjust blockade of Yemen by Saudi Arabia.
Two oil tankers carrying Saudi crude oil, one bound for China and the other for India, have already reversed course in the Red Sea following warnings from the Huthi rebels. A third tanker turned back before reaching the port of Yanbu to load. The Huthis warned ships against loading or unloading cargo at Saudi ports, according to an email sent to several shipping companies.
The blockade threatens to disrupt a crucial shipping route, the Bab al-Mandab strait, which connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. This strait is a vital chokepoint for global trade, particularly for oil shipments from Saudi Arabia. The Huthis have stated that they are prepared for further escalation if necessary.
The international community has expressed concern over the blockade. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric warned that the Huthi threats against Saudi Arabia and freedom of navigation risk triggering a wider regional escalation. US President Donald Trump stated that the US would "take care of" the Huthi rebels if they follow through on their threatened blockade of Saudi ports.
Saudi Arabia has condemned the Huthi blockade and vowed to take all necessary measures to protect its shipping in accordance with international law. The Saudi-led coalition against the Huthis has also stated that any threats to passing ships will be met with full resolve and force.
The conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Huthi rebels has been ongoing for years, with Saudi Arabia leading a coalition against the Huthis since 2015. The Huthis, who control large parts of northern Yemen, including the capital Sanaa, have been supported by Iran. The blockade is seen as a response to Saudi-led airstrikes and blockades on Yemen, which the Huthis describe as unjust and oppressive.
The blockade of the Red Sea comes at a time when the Strait of Hormuz, another critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, is also facing disruptions due to tensions between Iran and the US. The combined threat to both chokepoints has raised concerns about the impact on global oil supplies and prices.
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