Saudi Oil Tankers Turn Back in Red Sea After Houthi Strikes

Two oil tankers carrying Saudi crude reversed course in the Red Sea on July 21, 2026, after Yemen's Houthis claimed strikes on both vessels. The Houthis had declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia on July 20. Saudi Arabia rejected the blockade and vowed to protect Red Sea shipping. The U-turns are the first operational confirmation that operators are taking the threat seriously.