U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning against the Iran-backed Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. In a statement on his Truth Social platform, he said that a new attack by the Yemen-based group on commercial vessels would bring "major military punishment" to both the Houthis and Iran.
Trump stated that they would consider future Houthi attacks as Iran's responsibility, and argued that the movement was acting as an Iranian proxy. He reiterated the warning that such actions would have significant military consequences for both Tehran and the Houthis.
The statement came immediately after the Houthis announced missile and drone attacks on Saudi oil tankers. The Houthis had previously threatened to blockade Saudi Red Sea ports. While Saudi officials confirmed that a tanker had been hit, the British maritime security monitoring agency reported that a tanker was struck southwest of Al Shuqaiq and a fire broke out on the vessel.
During a visit to Manila, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also said that the Houthis were being "tricked" by Tehran into carrying out attacks in the Red Sea. Rubio expressed hope that the Houthis would step back from further escalation.
The Red Sea is a critical maritime trade route connecting Europe and Asia via the Suez Canal, and any disruption there could affect global energy supplies and trade. U.S.-Iran tensions have also spread to the Strait of Hormuz. Both waterways handle a significant portion of the world's oil shipments.
Diplomatic efforts continue amid the military escalation. Oman announced it was working to revive the Yemen peace process, in coordination with Saudi Arabia, the Yemeni parties, and the UN special envoy.
