The US's reckless acts of terror include the Houthis' attack on two oil ships in the Red Sea

On September 2, 2024, the US military strongly condemned the Houthi rebels from Yemen for their recent attacks on two crude oil tankers in the Red Sea, labeling these assaults as "reckless acts of terrorism." The targeted vessels were the Saudi-flagged *Amjad* and the Panama-flagged *Blue Lagoon I*.

The *Blue Lagoon I* was struck by multiple missiles and drones, an attack claimed by the Houthis later that day. However, they did not specify the *Amjad* in their claims. The US Central Command reported that both tankers were hit with two ballistic missiles and a one-way attack uncrewed aerial system. Despite the intensity of the assaults, both vessels sustained only minimal damage and managed to continue their voyages without significant disruption or any reported casualties.

The *Amjad*, owned by the Saudi national shipping group Bahri, was carrying approximately two million barrels of crude oil. The *Blue Lagoon I*, managed by Sea Trade Marine SA, had a maximum capacity of one million barrels. The attacks underscore ongoing regional tensions, particularly between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, who have been increasingly targeting vessels linked to Israel.

The Houthis have launched a series of aerial drone and missile strikes on the Red Sea since November of the previous year. They assert that their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amidst the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. This conflict, triggered by the October 7 attack by Hamas, has resulted in widespread devastation in Gaza, with significant loss of life and a humanitarian crisis.

In over 70 attacks, the Houthis have sunk two vessels, seized another, and caused at least three seafarer fatalities. The Joint Maritime Information Centre, which monitors such incidents, noted that the *Blue Lagoon I* was hit three times by ballistic missiles about 70 nautical miles northwest of the Yemeni port of Saleef. The Centre suggested that the vessel was targeted due to other ships in its fleet making recent port calls in Israel.

Saudi Arabia, a major oil exporter, has been closely monitoring these developments. The kingdom is concerned about the impact of these attacks on international shipping routes and its own security. The ongoing conflict with the Houthis, backed by Iran, and the broader regional tensions have heightened the stakes for maritime security in the Red Sea. 

In response to the attacks, the international community has been grappling with how to address the threats to maritime traffic and ensure the safety of shipping lanes in this critical global waterway.