Yemen's Houthi rebels said they launched a missile attack on a Saudi Arabian oil tanker in the Red Sea, part of a newly declared naval blockade against the kingdom. The attack, which the Houthis announced recently, targets Saudi shipping lanes as the group escalates its maritime campaign. In response, Saudi Arabia has turned to a more expensive route to export its crude oil, loading tankers at a Mediterranean port after Houthi threats disrupted Red Sea passages. According to Al Jazeera, the Houthis declared a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, targeting several tankers. MarketWatch reports that loadings at a Mediterranean port have increased as Saudi Arabia races to offer oil to buyers through a lengthier and pricier backdoor. This workaround involves shipping oil via alternate routes, adding costs and delays. The dual developments highlight the intensifying conflict's impact on global oil supply chains. The Houthi blockade threatens a key maritime corridor for Saudi exports, while Riyadh's costly alternative underscores the urgency to maintain deliveries. No casualties or damage have been confirmed from the alleged missile attack, and the extent of the blockade remains unclear. Analysts warn that sustained disruptions could tighten oil markets and raise prices. The Houthis have previously targeted Saudi infrastructure, including oil facilities, as part of their years-long war against the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.