Archive · 21 Jul 2026
Saudi Crude Exports Hit Record Before Houthi Threat
Saudi Arabia recently sent a record amount of oil from its Red Sea ports.
This happened just before a group called the Houthis said they would block Saudi oil ships.
The Houthis are upset with Saudi Arabia's actions in Yemen.
Despite the threat, some ships are still going to Saudi ports.
Saudi Arabia and its allies are taking steps to protect ships in a key area called the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
This situation could affect oil prices.
Saudi Arabia exported a record 5.9 million barrels of crude oil per day from Red Sea terminals before Houthi blockade threat.
Houthi rebels announced a blockade in response to what they perceive as a Saudi siege on Yemeni capital Sana’a.
Current crude oil exports have eased to 5.5 million barrels per day.
Saudi-led coalition is implementing measures to protect ships in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Despite threats, vessels are still going to Saudi Red Sea ports, and some Asian buyers are still sending tankers.
- Who
- Saudi Arabia, Houthi Rebels
- What
- Record crude oil exports from Red Sea terminals before Houthi blockade threat
- When
- Before July 20
- Where
- Red Sea, Yanbu terminals, Bab el-Mandeb Strait
- Why
- Houthi blockade in response to perceived Saudi siege on Sana’a
Saudi Arabia and Allies
Houthi Rebels
Blockade Justification
Saudi Arabia and Allies
Saudi Arabia and its allies view the Houthi blockade as an unjustified threat to international shipping and oil supplies.
Houthi Rebels
The Houthis justify the blockade as a response to what they perceive as a Saudi siege on the Yemeni capital, Sana’a.
- Record Export Volume
- 5.9 million barrels per day from Yanbu terminals
- Current Export Volume
- 5.5 million barrels per day
- Crude Price
- $89 per barrel
- Blockade Announcement Date
- Before July 20
- Strategic Chokepoint
- Bab el-Mandeb Strait