Yemen : Houthis Claim Strike on Saudi Military Landing Ship in Red Sea

Sana’a — Yemen’s Houthi movement announced Monday, August 17, 2026, that its forces targeted a Saudi military landing ship and four accompanying naval vessels in the Red Sea off the coast of Mokha, using multiple ballistic missiles.

Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said in a statement that the operation resulted in the “complete burning of the landing ship, sinking of several vessels, and damage to others,” claiming the strikes were “precise and direct.” He added that Houthi forces continue to monitor Saudi military movements and will persist in targeting them on land and sea.

A Yemeni military source told Germany’s DPA news agency that five ballistic missiles were launched from Ibb province and the Al‑Houbban area east of Taiz toward sites near Bab al‑Mandeb.

The attack comes a day after government forces reported Houthi missile and drone strikes on Mokha, which have repeatedly disrupted operations at the strategic port. Recent assaults caused extensive destruction and financial losses estimated at $16 million.

On Sunday, the Yemeni armed forces said they carried out 181 military operations, including drone raids and missile strikes against Houthi positions across several provinces, killing and wounding dozens of fighters and destroying multiple vehicles.

The developments highlight escalating clashes around Mokha and the western coast, where military sites, civilian facilities, and maritime routes have been repeatedly targeted. Saudi authorities have not yet confirmed the reported strike on the vessel or its escorts.