Houthis claim missile attack forced Saudi tanker back

SANAA, Yemen (MNTV) — Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed that it targeted a Saudi oil tanker with ballistic missiles, alleging the vessel turned back after ignoring warnings related to the group’s self-declared maritime restrictions.

In a statement posted on X, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the tanker NCC GHAZAL was struck after it allegedly violated what the group describes as a ban on Saudi-linked maritime traffic.

He said several ballistic missiles were launched at the vessel, forcing it to reverse course and return in the direction from which it had come.

Saree did not specify where the alleged attack occurred.

The Houthi claim could not be independently verified, and there was no immediate response from Saudi authorities or the tanker’s operator.

The group announced a maritime ban on Saudi Arabia on July 20, saying the measure was a response to what it describes as restrictions imposed by Saudi Arabia on areas under Houthi control in Yemen.

Last week, the Houthis also claimed responsibility for attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea using ballistic missiles and drones, alleging the strikes caused fires aboard the vessels.

Saudi officials have said they will take all necessary measures to safeguard commercial shipping and protect vessels operating under the kingdom’s flag or ownership.

The latest claim comes amid continued tensions in the Red Sea and surrounding waterways, where attacks on commercial shipping have heightened security concerns and disrupted maritime trade.