Riyadh: A Saudi oil tanker was subjected to an attack in international waters on Tuesday by Iranian Al Houthi militias.
The spokesperson of the Saudi-led Arab Coalition said that the attack was foiled due to the quick intervention of a coalition vessel.
The tanker sustained only a minor damage, and was able to continue on its journey, sailing north while accompanied by coalition vessels.
The ship was attacked west of Al Hodeidah Port, which is currently under the control of the armed, Iranian-backed Al Houthi militia.
Col. Turki Al Maliki, the coalition’s official spokesperson, said that the attack represents a dangerous threat to freedom of navigation and global trade at the Bab El Mandeb Strait and Red Sea, and can also cause environmental damage and economic loss.
He warned that these continued attempts shed light on how dangerous these militias are, and reaffirms the fact that Al Hadeeda Port is still being used as a launching point for terrorist operations, as well as the smuggling of missiles and weapons.
Security, stability
Al Maliki stressed that the Coalition will continue to take all necessary measures to preserve security and stability, and the freedom of navigation and world trade at Bab El Mandeb Strait and Red Sea.
He said this falls within the commitments of the coalition to achieve security and stability for Yemen, and safeguard regional and international security and stability, as well as global economy.
He reaffirmed the importance of placing Al Hodeidah Port under international supervision, and forbidding its use as a military base for launching attacks against maritime navigation routes.
