The Houthi movement in Yemen has claimed responsibility for a military operation against two Saudi Arabian oil tankers, according to Reuters. The group identified the vessels as the “Encelia” and the “Layla,” alleging that both ships had defied a naval blockade the Iran-aligned group has imposed against Saudi Arabia.
According to Reuters, the Houthis said the tankers were struck using a combination of ballistic and cruise missiles. An unnamed source within the maritime security community told Reuters that the “Encelia” issued a VHF radio call reporting it had been hit by a missile. The source said the vessel was struck off the coast of Jizan, Saudi Arabia, in the Red Sea, and that a fire had broken out on board.
Vanguard and UKMTO Confirm Details
British maritime risk firm Vanguard reported that the “Encelia,” sailing under the Saudi Arabian flag, was hit by an unknown projectile at 10:00 p.m. Danish time on its starboard side, approximately 70 nautical miles southwest of Al Shuqaiq, Saudi Arabia.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which operates under the British Ministry of Defense, told Reuters it had received a report of an incident in the same area. The captain of a tanker reportedly informed UKMTO that the vessel had been struck by an unknown projectile, sparking a fire that the crew was working to extinguish. UKMTO stated there were no reports of injuries or environmental damage.
Reuters notes it remains unclear whether the UKMTO report refers specifically to the “Encelia,” though the location and details align with Vanguard’s account. Vanguard also reported that the Houthis claimed to have struck the “Layla” as well, though this second claim has not been independently confirmed.
Blockade Declared Days Earlier
The Houthis announced on Monday that they had imposed a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea. According to Reuters, this move risks disrupting global energy supplies well beyond the Gulf region.
Does this matter to you?
Reported attacks on tankers transiting the Red Sea and near the Saudi Arabian coast may be relevant for vessel operators, charterers, and traders routing cargo through the region, as well as those monitoring maritime security advisories. Escalating Houthi activity, including the declared blockade, could affect voyage planning, insurance considerations, and risk assessments for vessels operating near Jizan and Al Shuqaiq. The direct operational impact on bunkering and broader shipping schedules is not yet clear from the available reporting.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Reuters, Vanguard, United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), via ShippingWatch
