Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Houthis Attack Saudi Tankers in Red Sea
Yemen’s Houthis said they attacked two Saudi oil tankers, Encelia and Layla, in the Red Sea.
They claim the tankers broke their naval blockade.
A maritime security group said Encelia was hit by a missile and was on fire.
No one was hurt, and there was no damage to the environment.
The Houthis also said they made other ships turn back, but this couldn't be confirmed.
Five tankers changed their course after the Houthis warned ships not to go to Saudi ports.
Yemen’s Houthis targeted two Saudi oil tankers, Encelia and Layla, in the Red Sea.
Encelia was hit by a missile and was on fire, according to maritime security reports.
No casualties or environmental impact were reported.
Houthis claim they imposed a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, forcing ships to retreat.
Five tankers changed course in the Red Sea after the Houthis warned ships to avoid Saudi ports.
- Who
- Yemen’s Houthis
- What
- Targeted two Saudi oil tankers, Encelia and Layla
- When
- Early on July 23
- Where
- Red Sea, near Jizan and Al Shuqaiq, Saudi Arabia
- Why
- Houthis claim the tankers violated their naval blockade on Saudi Arabia
Houthi Claims
Maritime Security Reports
Attack Confirmation
Houthi Claims
Houthis claim they targeted two Saudi tankers, Encelia and Layla, with ballistic and cruise missiles.
Maritime Security Reports
Maritime security reports confirm an attack on Encelia but remain unconfirmed on Layla.
Naval Blockade
Houthi Claims
Houthis claim they imposed a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, forcing ships to retreat.
Maritime Security Reports
Reuters could not immediately verify the Houthi account of forcing ships to retreat.
- Date
- July 23
- Location
- Red Sea, near Jizan and Al Shuqaiq, Saudi Arabia
- Tankers Involved
- Encelia, Layla
- Attack Type
- Ballistic and cruise missiles, drones
- Casualties
- None reported
- Environmental Impact
- None reported
- Naval Blockade
- Imposed by Houthis on Saudi Arabia
Sources
Yemen’s Houthis say they targeted two Saudi tankers; source says Encelia hit by missile
Middle East On Edge: Yemen's Houthis Claim Missile & Drone Strike On Two Saudi Oil Tankers In Red Sea Over Maritime Restrictions | Video
Iran-US War Live: Houthis Attack Saudi Tankers In Red Sea As US Hits Iran Again
