Sanaa: (RightNow) Yemen’s Houthi group announces their naval operations have forced 8 Saudi oil tankers to change course. Yemeni military spokesperson Yahya Saree states their armed forces continue a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia. According to him, Saudi ships are under their control.

The Houthis have not clarified when and under what circumstances the tankers changed course. This incident follows the Houthis’ July 20 announcement of a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia. The announcement raises security concerns for the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab trade routes.

Earlier, media reports claimed the Houthis plan to impose fees on commercial ships passing through Bab al-Mandab. However, Houthi leadership denies these reports, stating their actions are purely military strategy.

It is important to note that Bab al-Mandab is one of the world’s most crucial maritime routes, connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. Large quantities of crude oil and gas are transported globally through this route daily.

It should be noted that the Houthis’ claims have not been independently verified, and no official statement has been issued by Saudi authorities. These military activities could pose a challenge to Middle East security.