New Strait of Hormuz Attack Deepens Fears Over Global Oil Supply

Maritime trackers reported a new attack on a ship passing through the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, raising fresh concerns about threats to global energy supplies. The UK affiliated maritime agency UKMTO said a projectile struck a vessel in the strait, though the extent of the damage and the condition of the crew remained unknown.

Saudi Pipeline Shut After Drone Strike

The incident came a day after Saudi Arabia temporarily shut down its East-West oil pipeline following a drone attack that officials said originated in Iraq, where Iran-backed militias are active. The 745-mile pipeline has been moving 4 million to 5 million barrels of oil per day, accounting for roughly 4 to 5 percent of global supply, and has served as a key alternative route since the Strait of Hormuz became largely inaccessible amid the six-month war. Brent crude has surged past $100 a barrel in the past week amid the escalating attacks.

Saudi Crown Prince Requests US Military Support

Sources say Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman asked President Donald Trump for US military assistance against Houthi forces, but was told Washington would provide intelligence support rather than direct intervention for now. Trump said he believed Iran was likely responsible for the pipeline attack. Separately, Houthi forces reportedly seized the strategic island of Perim near the Bab el Mandeb strait, a critical Red Sea shipping route.

Diplomatic Talks on Hormuz Set for Monday

Iran is expected to attend a meeting with Gulf Arab states in Oman on Monday to discuss the future of the Strait of Hormuz, though officials have downplayed expectations of a breakthrough. Iran maintains it wants formal recognition of its control over the strait, including the ability to collect fees from passing vessels, a position the United States rejects.