Tensions in the Red Sea have escalated sharply after Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi group announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia. Ship tracking data shows that at least seven oil tankers and commercial vessels have reversed course near Yemeni waters following the threat. The crude carrier ‘Rodos,’ bound for India with Saudi oil, turned north near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, while another tanker, ‘Maika,’ also changed direction after leaving Saudi Arabia’s Jazan port. Several vessels from China to Saudi ports have similarly diverted routes through the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea.

The Houthis warned shipping companies via email that loading or unloading at Saudi ports is banned and violators could face attacks. They said the move responds to Saudi blockades on Yemeni ports and airports. Saudi Arabia denied the allegations and pledged to protect its shipping under international law. The European Union’s naval mission Aspides advised vessels linked to Israel, the U.S., and Saudi Arabia to avoid the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden until risks subside.

Analysts warned that the disruption could raise global oil prices and force Saudi Arabia to reroute exports via longer, costlier paths around Africa, threatening global energy stability.