Despite Houthi threats and a declared blockade against Saudi Arabia, oil shipments from Yanbu continue, though many Western tankers are going dark on transponders or rerouting via Suez/Cape of Good Hope to avoid the Bab el-Mandeb strait, adding cost and time to voyages.

Houthis declared a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia on July 20, 2026, sending tankers into U-turns and threatening oil prices above $100

If shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait is disrupted Saudi Arabia would face increased security costs and reduced flexibility in export shipments, Ahmed Nagi added

Shipping disruptions are emerging in key Middle East oil transit routes. Concerns are rising as vessels alter voyages due to security risks. The Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea are…

Houthi militia warnings are causing tankers to change course in the Red Sea. Two vessels altered their destinations to the Suez Canal after the blockade declaration. European…

Despite Houthi threats and a declared blockade against Saudi Arabia, oil shipments from Yanbu continue, though many Western tankers are going dark on transponders or rerouting via…

A Houthi spokesman said Friday that the rebels were not blocking traffic through the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait, after they declared a maritime embargo this week on their foe…