Houthis declare sea blockade on Saudi Arabia, oil markets on edge

Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen announced a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, accusing the kingdom of imposing an "aggressive siege" on their territory. The declaration, carried by state-aligned news outlets, marks a sharp escalation in regional tensions and threatens to disrupt oil shipments through key waterways. The Houthi statement did not specify how the blockade would be enforced, but the group has previously targeted Saudi oil infrastructure and vessels using drones and missiles. Analysts warn that any sustained disruption to shipping lanes in the Red Sea or the Arabian Sea could drive up global crude prices. Saudi Arabia has not yet responded to the announcement. The embargo, if implemented, would directly challenge the kingdom’s role as the world’s top oil exporter and its efforts to secure maritime routes. The move also risks drawing in other nations, as the Red Sea is a vital corridor for international trade. The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, have been fighting a Saudi-led military coalition since 2015. The conflict has repeatedly spilled into the maritime domain, with attacks on tankers and naval vessels. This latest threat comes amid stalled peace talks and deepening economic strain in Yemen.