Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:33am on 23 Jul 2026,Thursday International
Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for attacks on 2 Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, marking a major escalation in regional tensions. Saudi authorities confirmed that the tanker Encelia was hit, causing a fire, but said all crew members were safe. The Houthis said the strikes enforced their newly announced maritime blockade. Meanwhile, the United States carried out its 12th consecutive night of airstrikes on Iranian military targets, including missile, drone and coastal defence sites. Iran reported 2 deaths in the attacks and claimed the Strait of Hormuz had been closed following explosions and renewed military activity. (PC: BBC)
