UK, GCC states, Jordan condemn Houthi attack on Saudi vessel

According to the Saudi Gazette, the United Kingdom, member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and Jordan have issued strong condemnations following an alleged Houthi attack on a Saudi-operated vessel identified as the ENCELIA in the Red Sea. The UK Foreign Office characterized the incident as a reckless act that poses a significant threat to human life, risks an environmental disaster, and undermines regional stability in violation of international law. Britain reaffirmed its solidarity with Saudi Arabia and urged the Houthi movement to immediately cease all such maritime hostilities.

In a separate joint statement, the GCC member states and Jordan reaffirmed their unified stance against what they described as Iranian aggression and the actions of its regional proxies. The seven nations cited a series of incidents occurring since February 28, 2026, and referenced UN Security Council Resolution 2817 as a basis for their call to protect international navigation routes. The coalition emphasized that these attacks continue to threaten the security of regional territories and global trade.

The incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East, with international wires reporting a persistent series of strikes in the region and growing concerns over the impact of Houthi activities on global economic stability. As the international community continues to monitor the situation, the condemnation highlights the ongoing diplomatic pressure being placed on the Houthis to de-escalate their operations in the Red Sea. No further details regarding the status of the ENCELIA or its crew have been released at this time.