US Launches New Strikes on Iran Amid Houthi Attacks on Saudi Oil Tankers

The United States has initiated a fresh wave of military strikes against targets in Iran, with reports of explosions in multiple locations including the southern port city of Sirik, as well as Bushehr and Mahshahr. This marks the twelfth consecutive strike campaign by the US military in the region. Concurrently, the Houthi movement in Yemen has declared the start of a maritime blockade, claiming responsibility for missile attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea near Al-Shuqaiq, Saudi Arabia. The Houthis stated that the tankers, named ENCELA and LAYLA, were carrying significant oil shipments and that their attacks forced about ten ships to retreat. They warned of continued naval operations against Saudi forces and threatened severe retaliations for any aggression against Yemen.

The Saudi state media confirmed that a Saudi-owned vessel was attacked, resulting in a fire at the front of the ship, though all crew members were reported safe. The British Maritime Trade Operations Center issued warnings regarding the security situation in the area. In Washington, the US House of Representatives narrowly approved a $95 billion budget package to cover war expenses related to Iran, including an additional $60 billion for the Pentagon, despite unanimous Democratic opposition.

Amid escalating tensions, the UK evacuated its diplomatic staff from Iran due to security concerns, maintaining embassy operations remotely from Tehran. Iranian Revolutionary Guard Air Force Commander Majid Mousavi threatened to cut electricity supplies to Gulf allies if the US attacks Iranian power stations or bridges, also warning that southern routes in the Strait of Hormuz are mined. Meanwhile, US intelligence is investigating possible Russian assistance to Iran in recent attacks on CIA facilities in the Middle East, including improved drone technology and target selection support, following a deadly missile strike on a base in Jordan.

Former US President Donald Trump commented that Iran is not currently ready for a deal but may be soon. The Revolutionary Guards also warned that no oil tanker would pass through the Strait of Hormuz without coordination with them, citing two tankers that reversed course and one that caught fire due to an explosion south of the strait. These developments underscore a rapidly intensifying conflict involving Iran, the US, Saudi Arabia, and regional proxies, with significant implications for maritime security and energy supplies.