Iranian-Backed Houthi Terrorists Attack Two Oil Tankers in Red Sea

Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists have once again escalated tensions in the Middle East, striking two oil tankers in the Red Sea on Monday. The Houthis, a militant group with close ties to Tehran, launched missiles and uncrewed aerial systems at the vessels, further disrupting global shipping routes amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

The attacks targeted the Panama-flagged, Greek-operated MV BLUE LAGOON I and the Saudi-flagged MV AMJAD, which were both carrying crude oil. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the strikes, stating that the MV AMJAD was laden with nearly two million barrels of oil—twice the amount carried by the MV DELTA SOUNION, which the Houthis attacked in August.

• Significant Environmental Threat: The MV DELTA SOUNION, hit last month while carrying 150,000 tons of crude oil, remains a ticking time bomb. Still burning in the Southern Red Sea, it poses a severe environmental risk, with salvage operations ongoing. The Houthis’ repeated assaults have already endangered marine ecosystems and put the lives of civilian mariners in peril.

• A Growing Pattern of Terrorism: Monday’s attacks are just the latest in a string of reckless actions by the Houthis, who have increasingly targeted oil tankers to destabilize international trade. CENTCOM condemned these actions, warning that they jeopardize global commerce and regional stability.

• Ties to Iran: The Houthis have long been supported by the Iranian regime, which provides them with weapons and training. Their ongoing assault on oil tankers in the Red Sea not only disrupts global oil markets but also serves Iran’s broader goal of destabilizing the region.

The international community is on high alert as the Houthis’ aggression threatens to spark further conflict in the region, particularly as tensions rise over the Israel-Hamas war. The European Union’s naval forces, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, are working to prevent further damage, already having destroyed an unmanned surface vessel that threatened the MV DELTA SOUNION last month.

As the Houthis continue their campaign of terror, the world watches to see how much more damage these extremists will inflict on both global trade and environmental stability.

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