OIC condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi commercial ships in Red Sea

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) issued a formal condemnation on Monday, 27 July, following reports of Houthi militia attacks targeting Saudi Arabian commercial vessels in the Red Sea. The General Secretariat, based in Jeddah, described the incidents as a direct threat to international maritime navigation and global trade security. Threats to Maritime Security The OIC statement emphasized that specific targeting of merchant shipping lanes in the Bab el-Mandeb strait and the Red Sea constitutes a violation of international law. Saudi Arabia, which operates a significant portion of the region’s energy and cargo transport, has repeatedly called for international intervention to secure these critical waterways. The Red Sea handles approximately 10% of global seaborne trade, making any disruption a risk to global supply chains. This latest diplomatic response follows a series of reported engagements in the corridor, where Houthi forces have deployed drones and water-borne improvised explosive devices. The OIC reiterated its support for the Saudi-led coalition and the Yemeni government in their efforts to maintain regional stability and protect sovereign economic interests. Regional and Global Impact The timing of the OIC’s condemnation serves as a diplomatic signal to the United Nations and maritime authorities as security risks in the southern Red Sea remain elevated. For the UAE and other GCC nations, the safety of these shipping lanes is critical for both oil…