Pakistan, July 23 -- Tensions in the Middle East escalated further on Thursday after Yemen's Houthi movement claimed responsibility for attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, while the United States carried out a 12th consecutive night of military strikes against Iran.

Read More: Yemen's Houthis declare naval blockade against Saudi Arabia

The Houthis said they targeted the Saudi-flagged tankers Encelia and Layla using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones, alleging the vessels had violated a naval blockade the group declared against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea.

Saudi Arabia's state news SPA confirmed that the tanker Encelia caught fire following an attack while sailing in the Red Sea. Authorities said the vessel was ...