[Houthi Forces Claim Attack on Saudi Oil Tanker, US-Saudi Joint Strikes on Pro-Iran Militias in Iraq] BlockBeats News, July 29: Yemen's Houthi forces announced a missile attack on the Saudi-flagged oil tanker 'NCC Ghazal,' stating that the vessel ignored their warnings and was thus targeted and forced to change course. The UK Maritime Security Agency later reported that an oil tanker passing through the Red Sea had reported hearing an explosion, with no casualties reported so far. This marks at least the fourth attack on oil tankers since the Houthis declared a 'blockade' on Saudi Red Sea shipping. Meanwhile, the Saudi Ministry of Defense stated that the Saudi military, in coordination with the US Central Command, carried out precision strikes on pro-Iran militias in Iraq suspected of launching drone attacks. The US claimed the operation was in response to over 30 drone attacks targeting US forces and Saudi energy facilities within the past 72 hours. Iran has denied involvement in actions against Saudi targets. Analysts believe that as the Houthis escalate attacks on energy transport targets and the US-Saudi coalition intensifies strikes on pro-Iran militias in Iraq, tensions in the Middle East are further escalating. The Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, two critical energy transport corridors, face heightened risks, potentially exacerbating global energy supply disruptions and oil price volatility. [Original Link]