U. S.
President Donald Trump threatened major military punishment against Iran and Houthi militants on July 23, 2026, following missile and drone attacks on two Saudi oil tankers transiting the Red Sea.
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The Tehran-backed Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for hitting the vessels, identified as the Encelia and the Layla, after declaring a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Saudi state media confirmed a fire aboard the Encelia off the Red Sea coast, while international oil prices surged past $100 per barrel amid fears of severe global shipping disruptions.
President Trump warned on social media that Washington holds Tehran accountable for the maritime strikes.
"If they do this again, the U. S.
will hold Iran responsible, in that the Houthis are a Surrogate and/or Proxy of Iran, and major military punishment will be inflicted upon Iran and, of course, the Houthis, themselves," Trump said.
He previously highlighted the resumption of Houthi aggressive actions against regional commercial shipping.
"A year ago the United States of America attacked, very powerfully, the Houthis, for their interference with commerce and trade, by shooting at ships," Trump said.
"Since that time, and during our conflict with Iran, they have acted very responsibly," Trump said.
"Unfortunately, now they are starting up again, shooting at two Saudi Arabian ships last night."
He also told media outlets that broader military operations are currently under consideration by the administration.
"I am considering a massive attack. Bigger than ever before.
