Yemen’s Iranian-aligned Houthis warned shipping companies their tankers risk attack if they use Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea ports, enforcing a blockade announced Monday. Three oil tankers loaded with Saudi crude for China and India made U-turns away from Houthi-controlled waters at the Bab el-Mandeb strait, through which 7% of global maritime traffic passes. The militia claimed six ships changed course.

Donald Trump said the US would “just have to take care of business” if threats materialize, while diplomats seek to salvage the collapsed Iran-US interim deal. Marco Rubio stated Washington remains open to “real” negotiations, and Axios reported the administration weighs escalation versus a 10-day ceasefire for talks. Iranian interior minister Eskandar Momeni visited Pakistan as a mediator.

The Houthis control northern Yemen including the Bab el-Mandeb. Expert Allison Minor noted any ship visiting Saudi ports carrying Saudi oil is now in the crosshairs. Iran has pressed the Houthis to close the strait as counterweight to US pressure at Hormuz, with 25% of oil and gas shipments passing through both chokepoints combined.

Heavy strikes continue: US Central Command targeted Iranian command centers and missile sites, while Iran struck Jordan, Kuwait, and desalination plants. The State Department warned Iran and proxies may target US interests globally.