Houthi militia targets U.S. oil companies in Red Sea, Gulf of Aden

Iran-backed Houthi militia in Yemen has announced plans to target vessels linked to U.S. oil companies, including ExxonMobil, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips, in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This declaration comes despite a prior truce with Washington. The Houthis have designated 13 U.S. firms, nine executives, and two ships as hostile entities, according to a report by Reuters.

The militia"s actions indicate a significant escalation in tensions in the region, as they have formally "blacklisted" these companies and individuals. This move raises concerns about the safety of maritime operations in these strategic waterways.

For further context on related developments, see our coverage on the U.S. Air Force"s deployment of aircraft to the Middle East.