Houthi attacks on Saudi oil tankers could trigger wider war

Yemeni political figure Ali al‑Bukhaiti warned that continued Houthi attacks on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea risk sparking a full‑scale war, potentially prompting Saudi and Yemeni forces to move against Houthi strongholds and even capture leader Abdul‑Malik al‑Houthi in Saada for transfer to Riyadh. He cited earlier Saudi interest in rebuilding Saada under a comprehensive political settlement and urged a return to Omani‑mediated talks.

Journalist Mohamed al‑Masbah highlighted that the strikes threaten global energy security and international navigation, likely prompting Saudi diplomatic and legal actions through the UN Security Council and harsher military options. He noted that escalation may backfire, stressing that “the foolishness of escalation may be the shortest road to the downfall of the Houthi project.” Both voices call for restraint and political resolution to avoid broader regional conflict.