Ship-tracking data indicates that at least seven oil tankers performed U-turns near Yemen following a Monday announcement by the Houthi group, which declared a maritime embargo on Saudi Arabia. The group warned that vessels associated with Saudi ports would be prohibited from operations and could face potential targeting within their reach.
The Houthi declaration, which the group frames as retaliation for a Saudi blockade on ports and airports in northern Yemen, has prompted significant navigational changes. Among the vessels identified by tracking services, the Liberian-flagged Rodos and Mica both reversed course after departing Saudi ports. Additionally, at least eight vessels bound for the Red Sea, including the Liu Jiang Kou and New Prime, altered their paths in the Gulf of Aden.
The Red Sea has become a critical artery for Saudi oil exports following the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Experts warn that further disruptions in this region could impact global energy markets. Rosemary Kelanic of Defense Priorities noted that if trade is restricted, "prices will go up," while Kpler analyst Naveen Das cautioned that a prolonged closure would force oil shipments to take much longer routes around Africa, ultimately increasing consumer costs.
In response to the escalating threat, the European Union’s naval force, Aspides, has advised merchant vessels linked to the US, Saudi Arabia, or Israel to avoid the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Saudi officials have condemned the Houthi claims and stated they will implement necessary measures to safeguard their shipping interests under international law.
Source: BBC News
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