Houthi Rebels Claim Attack on Saudi Oil Tankers Amid Naval Blockade Tensions

Houthi rebels claimed overnight between Wednesday and Thursday that they attacked two Saudi oil tankers, identified as ENCELA and LAYLIA, which they said violated the naval blockade they imposed on Riyadh. Earlier, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported an incident about 130 kilometers from the Saudi coastal city of Al-Shuqaiq in the Jazan province, where a ship was reportedly hit by an unidentified object causing a fire on deck. No casualties were reported.

This attack follows the Houthis' declaration last Monday of a naval embargo against Saudi Arabia, described by their military spokesman Yahya Saree as a "sea blockade" based on a "eye for an eye" principle, effective immediately. Saree emphasized the Yemeni army's readiness to respond decisively to any Saudi escalation and called on supporters to remain mobilized and ready for all scenarios.

The escalation began about ten days ago after a Saudi airstrike targeted the international airport in Sanaa, allegedly to prevent an Iranian plane from landing as part of Riyadh's attempt to isolate the Houthis. In retaliation, the Houthis launched missile attacks on Saudi airports. Although no new attacks have been reported since, tensions remain high between the two sides.

The Houthis also expressed solidarity with their supporters who demonstrated in favor of their forces and vowed to continue efforts to restore their rights and end what they call the unjust blockade, regardless of the consequences.

Summary: Houthi rebels claimed attacking Saudi oil tankers violating their naval blockade near Jazan, following a recent escalation involving Saudi airstrikes and retaliatory missile attacks, with tensions remaining high.

Points: - Houthis claim attack on Saudi oil tankers ENCELA and LAYLIA violating their naval blockade. - UKMTO reported a maritime incident near Al-Shuqaiq causing a fire on a ship, no casualties. - Houthis declared a naval embargo on Saudi Arabia last Monday, citing "eye for an eye" retaliation. - Escalation began after Saudi airstrike on Sanaa airport aimed at blocking Iranian plane. - Houthis retaliated with missile strikes on Saudi airports; tensions remain elevated. - Houthis urge supporters to stay mobilized and vow to end the blockade despite consequences.

Topic: security israel_relevant: false Entities: {"people":["Yahya Saree","Mohammed bin Salman","Abdul-Malik Badreddin al-Houthi"],"organizations":["Houthi rebels","UK Maritime Trade Operations","Yemeni army"],"places":["Riyadh","Al-Shuqaiq","Jazan","Sanaa","Saudi Arabia","Yemen"]}