Saudi sources confirmed Thursday morning that a Saudi-owned oil tanker was struck by Houthi missiles and drones in the Red Sea, with a fire breaking out in the forward section. All crew members are reported safe. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the incident 70 nautical miles off Al-Shuwaik, Saudi Arabia. The Houthis claimed responsibility for attacking two vessels, but only one has been confirmed hit.
Overnight Wednesday, the Houthi movement in Yemen attacked a Saudi-owned oil tanker in the Red Sea, the first confirmed strike on a Saudi vessel since the Houthis declared a naval blockade on Saudi ports. The tanker, identified as the ENCELIA, was struck by missiles and drones approximately 70 nautical miles off the Saudi coast near Al-Shuwaik, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). Saudi sources confirmed the attack early Thursday morning, reporting a fire in the forward section and stating that all crew members are safe.
The Houthis claimed responsibility, stating they targeted two Saudi oil tankers near the Bab el-Mandeb strait. Only one vessel has been confirmed hit. The attack follows a series of Houthi threats against Saudi oil infrastructure and shipping, and a warning earlier this week that vessels should avoid Saudi ports. As The Zioneer reported on July 22, five oil tankers rerouted in the Red Sea after the Houthi blockade warning.
The ENCELIA, carrying an estimated 110,000 metric tons (800,000 barrels) of oil, was observed by AIS data slowing significantly around 19:50 UTC Wednesday, shortly before the Houthis announced an upcoming military statement. The extent of the damage and whether the fire has been brought under control remain unclear.
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