Escalating Maritime Tensions: Houthi Attacks on Oil Tankers Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

A Liberian-flagged oil tanker in the Red Sea was attacked three times by bomb-carrying drones, likely by Yemen's Houthi rebels amid the Israel-Hamas war. The assaults have disrupted crucial trade routes and sparked intense naval combat. Iran, supporting the Houthis, threatens retaliation against Israel.

A Liberian-flagged oil tanker in the Red Sea suffered three attacks on Tuesday, including one involving a bomb-carrying drone boat, believed to be orchestrated by Yemen's Houthi rebels amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, according to officials.

The intensifying attacks, likely driven by the assassination of Hamas official Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, are contributing to fears of a broader regional conflict. The disruptions have affected the $1 trillion annual flow of goods through vital maritime routes, creating a significant impact on global trade.

The series of assaults included an incident involving the Greek-managed tanker Delta Atlantica and a similar attack on the Panama-flagged On Phoenix. Although the Houthis have yet to claim responsibility, they have historically targeted ships linked to Israel, the U.S., and the U.K., attempting to force a resolution to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)