The United States military has accused Yemen’s Houthi rebels of attacking two crude oil tankers in the Red Sea, a vital waterway for global trade. The attacks mark the latest in a series of incidents targeting commercial vessels in the region.
In a statement released by the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), officials said that the Houthi militia launched drone attacks against the two tankers, causing significant damage to one of the vessels. The incident took place near the Yemeni coast, a region that has been plagued by conflict and instability for years.
The U.S. military condemned the attacks, calling them a threat to maritime security and the global economy. “These attacks are a clear violation of international law and pose a risk to the free flow of commerce,” said a CENTCOM spokesperson. “The United States will continue to work with our partners to ensure the safety and security of vital sea lanes.”
The Houthi rebels, who control much of northern Yemen, have denied responsibility for the attacks. The group has accused the Saudi-led coalition, which is fighting the Houthis in the Yemeni civil war, of carrying out the attacks to justify its military operations.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the Red Sea region. In recent years, the Houthis have launched several attacks on Saudi Arabian oil facilities and shipping vessels, disrupting global oil supplies. The attacks have also led to an increase in maritime insurance premiums for vessels transiting the region.
The U.S. military has been working to counter the Houthi threat in the Red Sea. In recent months, the U.S. Navy has deployed warships to the region to protect commercial shipping and deter Houthi attacks. The U.S. has also provided military assistance to the Saudi-led coalition, including intelligence and logistical support.
The attacks on the oil tankers are a reminder of the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the humanitarian crisis facing the country. Millions of Yemenis are facing starvation and disease, and the conflict has displaced millions more. The United Nations has been working to broker a peace deal between the warring parties, but progress has been slow.
The U.S. government has called for a peaceful resolution to the Yemeni conflict. “We believe that a political solution is the only way to address the humanitarian crisis and bring lasting peace to Yemen,” said a State Department spokesperson. “We urge all parties to engage in good-faith negotiations and work towards a lasting ceasefire.”
