Red Sea attacks

Analysis

In military reshuffle, Saudi Arabia seeks efficiency, closing gap with regional rivals

Saudi Arabia has recently undertaken a significant reorganization of its top military leadership, with new senior appointments to the kingdom’s joint, land and naval forces — a step that could mark a pivotal shift in the country's defense strategy and domestic balance.

By Francesco Schiavi

In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance

Two oil tankers come under attack in the Red Sea, sources say

Oil tankers transiting the Red Sea are facing renewed dangers while transiting one of the world's most critical chokepoints for crude.

Saudi Arabia

Houthis allow Greek tanker ablaze in Red Sea to be towed to safety

The Iran-backed rebels said they were responding to concerns by the European Union that the tanker endangered maritime and environmental safety in the Red Sea.

Yemen

Analysis

What Maersk's $250M logistics park means for Saudi Arabia

Danish logistics company remains invested in the Red Sea despite continued threats to shipping from Yemen's Houthi militants.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

UAE port operator DP World's profits fall 60% amid Yemen's Houthi Red Sea attacks

The Dubai-based logistics firm reported $265 million in profit for the first half of 2024 ending June 30, down from $651 million the same time last year.

United Arab Emirates

Ethiopia-Somalia set for second round of talks in Turkey next week

Turkey’s framework proposal for the two countries aims to secure Ethiopian access to the Red Sea while ensuring Somalia's territorial integrity.

Turkey

Analysis

Is Houthi expansion in Iraq a genuine threat or smoke screen?

Iraq's relations with Saudi Arabia are called into question as the Houthis seek to expand their influence in the region.

By Francesco Schiavi

In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance

Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping wipe $2B off Suez Canal annual revenue

The Suez Canal Authority said revenue for fiscal year 2023/24 fell to $7.2 billion, down from $9.4 billion the preceding year.

Yemen

Analysis

As Gulf maritime threats persist, can EU's naval mission deter Houthis?

The European Union Naval Force mission and accomplishments reinforce commitment to becoming a significant maritime security provider. However, the absence of a clear strategy to effectively mitigate the escalating threat from Houthi rebels casts a shadow over the potential restoration of stability in the region.

By Francesco Schiavi

In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance

Analysis

As UK swings left with Labour landslide, what awaits Middle East policy?

The party's campaign highlighted the importance of resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict.

By Jack Dutton

In Bristol, reporting on regional business, climate change, AI, tech

As Houthis sink second vessel, shipping industry calls for Red Sea protection

A shipping salvage firm confirmed on Wednesday that the M/V Tutor, a Greek-owned, Liberian-flagged bulk carrier, had sunk after being hit by two Houthi cruise missiles on June 12. The attack killed one crew member from the Philippines.

Yemen

IDF scrambles GPS systems in central Israel against potential Iranian reprisal

The Israeli military is apparently behind disturbances to location-based applications in central Israel in an effort to thwart potential airstrikes from Iran and its proxy forces.

Israel