UK Condemns Houthi Attacks on Saudi Oil Tankers, Warns of Regional Security Risks

LONDON, July 23: The United Kingdom on Thursday condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi oil tankers, warning that the strikes threaten lives, the environment and regional security amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

In a statement posted on X, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said Britain stands in solidarity with Saudi Arabia and urged the Houthis to halt the attacks.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency reported that a tanker caught fire after being struck around 70 nautical miles southwest of the Saudi port of Al Shuqaiq.

Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it targeted two Saudi tankers using drones and missiles, alleging the vessels had violated its declared maritime blockade.

The latest strikes have raised concerns that shipping disruptions, which have affected the Strait of Hormuz, could spread to the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait—two of the world's most important maritime routes for crude oil and fuel shipments.

The attacks came hours after US President Donald Trump warned that the United States would target Iranian infrastructure, including bridges or power plants, each time Tehran attacked a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran responded by warning it would retaliate against US-linked infrastructure and energy assets across the region if Washington carried out the threatened strikes, further increasing fears of a broader regional conflict.