A Saudi-owned commercial vessel came under attack by the Iranian-backed Houthi militia while sailing in the Red Sea, causing a fire to break out at the front section of the ship and prompting widespread condemnation from Gulf and international governments.
The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) quoted an official source from the relevant maritime authority as confirming that all crew members aboard the vessel “Insilia” were safe.
The source said authorities immediately took necessary measures to secure the ship, protect its crew and safeguard the marine environment, stressing that the attack represents a violation of international laws and conventions that guarantee the safety of commercial vessels and their personnel.
The incident has intensified concerns over the security of one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes and raised renewed calls for stronger international action against threats to freedom of navigation.
Saudi-Pakistani Coordination
Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman received a phone call from Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during which Sharif condemned the Houthi attack and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia’s security and sovereignty.
The two leaders discussed regional developments and efforts to reduce tensions and strengthen security and stability.
Sharif said on the “X” platform that both sides agreed to continue close coordination to maintain peace and stability and ensure the uninterrupted flow of legitimate maritime trade through the Red Sea, Strait of Hormuz and the wider region.
GCC Condemns Threats to Maritime Security
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jassem Al-Budaiwi strongly condemned the continued Houthi threats against commercial vessels, describing them as a dangerous escalation that threatens regional security and undermines international efforts to protect maritime routes.
He called for a firm international response to deter actions that threaten global trade and freedom of navigation.
Gulf States Express Support for Saudi Arabia
The UAE condemned the attack in the strongest terms, expressing full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and support for measures aimed at protecting its security and stability.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the attack poses a serious threat to international navigation and represents a dangerous escalation targeting the security of vital waterways.
Abu Dhabi called for enforcement of relevant UN Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 2216 on Yemen and Resolution 2722 concerning freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.
Qatar described the attack as a “dangerous violation” of maritime security and a direct threat to global energy supplies.
Doha stressed that continued Houthi attacks represent an unacceptable escalation that threatens regional stability, reaffirming its full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and emphasizing that the Kingdom’s security is closely linked to the security of Qatar and GCC states.
Bahrain also strongly condemned the attack, reaffirming its support for Saudi Arabia and calling on the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, to take decisive action to protect maritime routes and hold those responsible accountable.
Oman Calls for De-escalation
Oman said it is coordinating with Saudi Arabia, Yemeni parties and the UN Special Envoy for Yemen to support efforts aimed at reviving the political process and achieving regional stability.
The Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Muscat is closely monitoring developments in the Red Sea and stressed the importance of avoiding further escalation or actions that threaten freedom of navigation.
European Union and France Condemn Attack
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called on the Houthis to stop attacks on ships in the Red Sea, describing the strike on the Saudi vessel as “unacceptable and illegitimate.”
She said the EU maritime operation ASPIDES remains committed to protecting freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and surrounding international waters.
France also condemned the attacks on Saudi oil tankers, describing them as an irresponsible and dangerous escalation.
The latest incident has renewed international concerns over threats to shipping routes connecting Asia, the Middle East and Europe, with governments warning that continued attacks could further disrupt global trade and energy supplies.
