Tensions in the Red Sea have surged once again after Yemen's Houthi movement claimed it carried out coordinated attacks on two Saudi oil tankers transiting one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes. The group said it targeted the tankers Encelia and Layla using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones, alleging that the vessels had violated its maritime blockade directives. According to the Houthis, the attacks were launched under their "eye for an eye" retaliation doctrine following the recent escalation surrounding the Sanaa International Airport bombing. The group claimed the strikes set both tankers ablaze and warned that any vessel violating its blockade would remain a legitimate target. WATCH

Yemen has disrupted civilian air traffic after an airstrike targeted Houthi-controlled Sanaa International Airport, forcing an Iranian Mahan Air flight to divert moments before its planned landing. According to flight tracking data, the Mahan Air aircraft changed course and diverted to Hodeydah after the runway at Sanaa Airport was reportedly struck during a military operation. Dramatic visuals circulating online show thick plumes of smoke rising from the airport, highlighting the intensity of the strike. Yemen government-aligned forces said the operation was carried out to prevent an Iranian aircraft from landing at the Houthi-controlled airport. Officials also urged civilians, diplomatic missions and humanitarian organizations to evacuate the airport area amid fears of further military action. The Houthis strongly condemned the strike, accusing Saudi Arabia of ending the de-escalation phase of the conflict. A Houthi spokesperson warned that the attack would not go unanswered, raising concerns over another round of regional escalation. WATCH