Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed they attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, escalating tensions as the U.S.conducted its 12th night of airstrikes against Iran.

The conflict over control of vital shipping lanes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, has disrupted global energy markets and raised concerns about economic instability.

The Houthi attacks on the tankers Encelia and Layla, which caused fires but no casualties, mark their first reported strike on commercial vessels since announcing a blockade of Saudi-linked shipping.The U.S.military emphasized its strikes aim to degrade Iran’s ability to threaten maritime traffic, while President Trump vowed to retaliate by destroying Iranian infrastructure if attacked.Iran and the U.S.continue to clash over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global trade, with both sides accusing each other of undermining shipping routes.Diplomatic efforts have stalled, and the war’s economic impact has surged fuel and commodity prices worldwide.Iran’s threats to target energy infrastructure in neighboring Gulf states and the U.S.response with airstrikes highlight the deepening regional conflict.The situation remains volatile, with no signs of de-escalation despite ongoing negotiations and regional calls for peace.