Two oil tankers, the Saudi-flagged Amjad and the Panama-flagged Blue Lagoon I, were attacked in the Red Sea near Yemen on Monday. According to sources familiar with the incident, the tankers were struck by missiles and drones while sailing close to each other.
Houthis Claim Responsibility
Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for targeting the Blue Lagoon I with multiple missiles and drones. However, they made no mention of the Saudi tanker Amjad in their statements. The Joint Maritime Information Center, operated by international naval forces, confirmed that three ballistic missile strikes hit the Blue Lagoon I approximately 70 nautical miles northwest of the Yemeni port of Saleef.
Minimal Damage, No Casualties
Despite the attacks, both tankers were able to continue their voyages with minimal damage and no casualties reported. The Amjad, owned by the Saudi national shipping group Bahri, and the Blue Lagoon I, managed by Greek company Sea Trade Marine SA, did not require any external assistance after the attacks.
Concerns in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, the world’s leading oil exporter, has been increasingly concerned about Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, especially as the conflict in Yemen drags on. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have previously launched several attacks on ships in the region as part of their support for Palestinians in the Gaza war.
Previous Attacks in the Region
This latest attack is part of a series of over 70 attacks by the Houthis on vessels in the Red Sea since November. These incidents have resulted in the sinking of two ships, the seizure of another, and the death of at least three seafarers.