Muscat/Manama, July 23 (SANA)Bahrain on Thursday condemned an attack by the Iran-backed Houthi militia on a Saudi commercial vessel in the Red Sea, while Oman called for de-escalation and renewed political efforts to safeguard maritime security.

In a statement, Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry described the attack as a flagrant violation of international law and the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea, warning that it poses a serious threat to maritime navigation, international trade and global energy supplies.

The ministry reaffirmed Bahrain’s full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and support for measures taken to protect its sovereignty, security and vital interests.

It also urged the international community, particularly the U.N. Security Council, to take action to stop the attacks, ensure the safety of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab al-Mandab Strait and other strategic waterways, and hold those responsible accountable.

Separately, Oman’s Foreign Ministry called for avoiding any further escalation in the Red Sea, warning against actions that could endanger freedom of navigation.

The ministry said Muscat was coordinating with Saudi Arabia, the Yemeni parties and the U.N. special envoy to Yemen to revive the political process and roadmap aimed at achieving regional security and stability.

Earlier on Thursday, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Transport said the commercial vessel Insilia came under direct attack while sailing in the Red Sea, causing a fire in its bow. It said all crew members were safe and no injuries were reported.

The Houthi militia later claimed responsibility for targeting the Saudi vessels Insilia and Layla with missiles and drones, describing the attacks as part of what it called a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia. The attacks have drawn widespread international condemnation.F.J./ABD