Houthi Missile Strike Sets Saudi Oil Tanker Ablaze 63 Miles Off Yanbu
Houthi ballistic missile ignites fire on Bahri-operated Amzan as Red Sea blockade tightens, forcing ships to reroute.
A Saudi oil tanker operated by state-owned shipping company Bahri caught fire early Monday after being struck by a projectile near the Red Sea port of Yanbu. The vessel, identified as the Amzan, was hit approximately 63 nautical miles (117 km) west of Yanbu, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
The UKMTO reported that the projectile struck the tanker’s main deck, igniting a fire. While the agency did not confirm the type of weapon used, Yemen’s Houthi group claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it had targeted the Amzan with a ballistic missile. The Houthis said the strike was part of their campaign to block Saudi-linked vessels from navigating the Red Sea. Their claims have not been independently verified.
Bahri confirmed the incident, stating that all crew members were safe and accounted for. The company did not specify the cause of the fire or the weapon involved. In a statement, Bahri emphasized its priorities:
“We remain in contact with the vessel and are closely coordinating with the relevant authorities. The safety of our crew, protection of the marine environment, and safe operation of the vessel remain our priorities.”
No environmental damage was reported following the attack. However, the incident highlights the growing risks to shipping in the Red Sea, a critical route for Saudi oil exports. Yanbu serves as a key alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, which has faced disruptions due to regional tensions.
Escalating Threats to Red Sea Shipping: Saudi Oil
The attack on the Amzan is the latest in a series of strikes claimed by the Houthis. The group has previously targeted Saudi energy infrastructure, including facilities linked to Aramco in Yanbu, though Saudi authorities have not confirmed those incidents. The Houthis have also carried out attacks in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, further destabilizing maritime security in the region.
The group’s actions are part of a broader campaign to pressure Saudi Arabia and its allies. The Houthis have stated their attacks are in support of Iran, which seeks to disrupt global energy supplies amid ongoing regional conflicts. The Red Sea’s strategic importance as a shipping corridor makes it a prime target for such disruptions.
Implications for Saudi Energy Security
The Amzan incident raises concerns about the vulnerability of Saudi Arabia’s energy infrastructure. Yanbu, a major hub for oil exports, has become a frequent target of Houthi threats. While the immediate impact of the attack appears limited, the broader pattern of strikes suggests a sustained effort to disrupt Saudi oil shipments.
For global oil markets, the instability in the Red Sea adds another layer of uncertainty. With no clear resolution to the conflict, the region’s role as a vital artery for energy trade remains at risk. Saudi authorities will likely face pressure to enhance security measures to protect their shipping routes and critical infrastructure.
Sign up free to ask CAMAL AI for a summary, the key points or anything else about this story.
Related stories
CAMAL AI
Financial Ports Newsletter
The maritime economy, every morning
Ports, shipping and freight markets in one short email. Free.
