Overview
- The Iran-backed Houthi terror group attacked a Chinese-owned oil tanker in the Red Sea, breaching assurances of safe passage for Chinese vessels.
- The attack is part of the Houthis' blockade strategy in support of Hamas amid the Israel-Gaza conflict, initially targeting Israel-linked ships but now affecting global shipping.
- The US and UK have launched strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen and formed a coalition to protect shipping in the Red Sea, but attacks continue.
- No casualties were reported from the attack on the Chinese tanker, which sustained minimal damage and resumed its course.
- The Houthis' actions, including the blockade and attacks on shipping, aim to pressure Israel into a ceasefire and have disrupted global trade routes.