Houthi Attack Hits Saudi Amzan Oil Tanker Off Yanbu Coast

Red Sea – (Special Correspondent/Web Desk) – A Houthi attack on Amzan tanker has set off fresh alarm across the Red Sea shipping route, after the Yemeni group claimed it struck the Saudi-flagged vessel near the port city of Yanbu. The group said the strike used a ballistic missile and was part of its ongoing blockade against Saudi-linked ships.

The tanker, named Amzan, belongs to Saudi Arabia’s national shipping company, Bahri. In a statement, Bahri confirmed the vessel was caught up in what it called a maritime incident in the Red Sea. The company said it stayed in close contact with the crew throughout the event.

All Crew Members Safe

Good news came quickly. Bahri confirmed that every crew member on board is safe. No injuries were reported. The firm added that it is working closely with local authorities to manage the situation and protect the surrounding waters.

Earlier reports from the UK Maritime Trade Operations agency said an unknown projectile struck a tanker roughly 63 nautical miles off the coast of Yanbu. The strike caused a fire to break out on the main deck, though there were no signs of damage to the wider marine environment.

Houthis Explain the Attack

A Houthi military spokesperson said the attack was carried out to enforce what the group calls a “blockade for blockade” policy. He added that the strike was direct and precise, and it forced nearby vessels to move away from the area for safety.

Why Yanbu Matters for Saudi Oil

Yanbu holds major importance for Saudi Arabia’s oil trade. It serves as the country’s main Red Sea port, handling millions of barrels of crude oil each day. In recent months, it has become a key route for Saudi tankers trying to avoid the Strait of Hormuz, which remains blocked amid tensions with Iran.

This is not the first such incident. Over the past few weeks, the Houthis have carried out several strikes on Saudi assets. These include an attack on an oil refinery and a deadly strike at a Yemeni port that killed several people. A double attack on a cargo ship in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait also left multiple people dead and wounded.

No Official Word From Saudi Officials

So far, Saudi officials have not issued an official confirmation regarding the Amzan incident. Requests for comment sent to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have gone unanswered.

Analysts believe this attack adds to a growing pattern. Iran-backed forces appear to be targeting energy routes to pressure the United States into halting military actions in the wider region. As tensions rise, shipping companies are being urged to stay alert and report any unusual activity while moving through these waters.

Calm Returns, But Risks Remain

For now, calm has returned to the Amzan, but uncertainty remains high across the Red Sea shipping corridor. Maritime security teams continue to monitor the area closely as more ships choose alternate paths to avoid future risks.