Saudi Tanker Encelia Catches Fire After Attack in the Red Sea

The Saudi-flagged oil tanker Encelia caught fire after being struck by an unknown projectile while sailing in the Red Sea, marking another serious security incident on one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes.  

According to maritime security sources, the tanker had departed from the Saudi oil terminal at Yanbu and was navigating near the port of Jizan when it transmitted a distress call reporting that it had been hit. The impact caused a fire in the vessel’s forward section, but the crew quickly responded to contain the blaze.  

Saudi authorities confirmed that all crew members are safe and that there were no reported injuries or signs of an oil spill. Emergency measures were taken to secure the vessel and prevent environmental damage.  

The Houthi movement later claimed responsibility for attacks on two Saudi oil tankers, stating that the operation involved missiles and drones. While Saudi officials confirmed the attack on Encelia, reports regarding a second tanker, Layla, have not been independently verified.  

The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Following the attack, several tankers reportedly altered their routes as shipping companies closely monitored the rapidly changing security situation in the region.  

The Red Sea remains one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors, linking Europe and Asia through the Suez Canal. Any disruption in this region has the potential to affect global energy supplies, freight rates and international shipping operations.