The Houthi forces have adjusted their tactics! They will no longer target oil tankers bound for China, instead focusing on those carrying Saudi oil to the United States. On July 23, according to foreign media reports, the Houthi forces made a new announcement: oil tankers loaded with Saudi oil heading to China would be allowed to pass through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, while those carrying Saudi oil destined for Europe and the United States would be targeted. It must be said that this tactical shift by the Houthis is truly swift.
Previously, foreign media reported that a super-large oil tanker named "Xinlongyang" departed from Yanbu Port in Saudi Arabia, fully loaded with approximately 2 million barrels of crude oil en route to China. However, before entering Yemen’s maritime zone, the vessel halted its journey and changed course northward. Clearly, such an incident is directly linked to the Houthi blockade, which has indeed impacted our energy supply. Yet, we didn’t expect the Houthis to adjust their strategy so quickly.
In fact, when the Houthis first issued a blockade warning, they broadly cautioned that any vessels docking at Saudi ports were at risk of attack, regardless of their final destination. Within just a few days, the Houthis rapidly refined their targeting criteria—truly impressive efficiency. We welcome this adjustment, as it significantly reduces the number of enemies the Houthis face. Let’s hope that oil tankers heading to the U.S. and Europe don’t pretend their destination is China.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1871522215842816/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.