Yemen's Houthi group has announced the continuation of its maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, reporting that eight oil tankers have been forced to alter their course and return to their ports of origin.

This action is framed as part of a strategy to solidify a "blockade in response to a blockade" and enforce a sea embargo against Saudi targets. The Houthi spokesperson, Yahya Sarea, stated on social media that the blockade operations are still active, vowing to continue intercepting Saudi vessels as long as conditions permit.

The maritime embargo was declared by the Houthis on July 20. On July 23, they announced the use of missiles and drones to attack two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea that were allegedly violating these restrictions. In retaliation, the Saudi-led coalition launched airstrikes on July 25 against Houthi military targets in the Hodeidah governorate of Yemen.