JAKARTA - Oman has called for de-escalation in the Red Sea region after the Iranian-backed Yemeni Houthi group attacked two Saudi Arabian oil tankers in the region, amid an expanding conflict involving Iran.
"The Sultanate of Oman is closely monitoring the latest developments related to the situation in the Red Sea region," the Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, as reported by CNN, Thursday, July 23.
The ministry emphasized the need to avoid escalation and any threats that could worsen the situation and endanger freedom of navigation.
The Houthis, one of Iran's main allies in the region, have long warned they could take action to block the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a crucial chokepoint at the southern tip of the Red Sea.
Earlier this week, the group announced a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia's shipping, an escalation that could further threaten global oil supplies.
Military spokesman Yahya Saree said in a statement broadcast on the group's Al-Masirah television that the maritime navigation ban related to Saudi Arabia has been in effect since Monday, July 20.
Saree warned that any Saudi escalation would be met with what he called a "comprehensive and heavy escalation."
Last week, the Houthi group accused Saudi Arabia of carrying out an air raid on Sanaa airport and launching missiles into Saudi territory, ending years of calm.
Although Riyadh has not commented on the Houthi allegations, the internationally recognized Yemeni government claims responsibility for the attack, saying they targeted the airport to prevent Iranian planes from landing.
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