Israeli-Owned Tanker Targeted by Explosion Near Red Sea, Crew Safe

An Israeli-owned, Liberia-flagged tanker reported an explosion nearby southwest of Saudi Arabia's Red Sea port city of Yanbu, with the crew confirmed safe and continuing their voyage while authorities investigate the incident. British maritime security firm Ambrey identified the vessel and assessed the attack as consistent with targets of Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, who have been conducting maritime attacks on vessels affiliated with Israel in support of Palestinians in Gaza. The Houthis have not yet claimed responsibility, but the Yemeni Armed Forces announced a ballistic missile strike on the Israeli oil tanker "SCARLET RAY" in the northern Red Sea, affirming ongoing military operations against Israeli shipping in support of Palestinians. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the projectile impact and is investigating without attributing blame. This escalation occurs amid regional tensions, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks at the Shanghai Cooperation Council summit condemning terrorism and violations of sovereignty. Saudi Arabia continues to lead a coalition against the Houthis in Yemen, seeking to counter their military actions since 2015.