Why have the Houthis announced they will target Saudi oil tankers in the northern Red Sea?

The Houthis announced they will target Saudi oil tankers in the northern Red Sea as retaliation for Saudi Arabia diverting ships away from the Bab el-Mandeb chokepoint and in response to a blockade on Yemeni ports, which the group cited last month as justification for beginning attacks on Saudi vessels.

What is the current impact of the Houthi blockade on Saudi oil exports, according to Saudi Aramco?

According to Saudi Aramco, the Houthi blockade has yet to dent export volumes, and the kingdom is working on contingency plans to keep its oil flowing.

Yemen’s Houthis Say They’ll Target Tankers in Northern Red Sea

Aug 5, 2026

Yemen's Houthi group announced plans to attack Saudi oil tankers in the northern Red Sea, escalating risks to global energy markets. While Saudi Aramco reports export volumes remain stable, the threat poses potential disruptions to key shipping chokepoints.

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Yemen’s Houthis Say They’ll Target Tankers in Northern Red Sea

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