UKMTO Reports Fire on Tanker After Projectile Hit Near Saudi Oil Port

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations confirmed on Monday that an unidentified projectile struck a Saudi‑flagged tanker approximately 63 nautical miles (about 117 km) west of Yanbu, igniting a fire on its main deck. The ship’s security officer reported that the crew is safe and all members are present. British security firm VanGuard Tech also reported a missile impact on the vessel, resulting in the blaze. Yanbu, the kingdom’s main oil loading port, has become the central conduit for Saudi oil exports after the Hormuz Strait blockage. The attack comes amid a series of recent Houthi operations in the Red Sea, notably a ballistic missile strike claimed on 17 August against a Saudi landing ship near the strategic port city of Mokha.