Tensions have soared in the Gulf, with the United States deploying an aircraft carrier and bombers there over alleged threats from Iran. The United Arab Emirates "welcomed" Saudi Arabia's invitation. Four ships, including two Saudi oil tankers, were damaged in mysterious sabotage attacks last Sunday off the UAE's Fujairah, located at the crucial entrance to the Gulf. That incident was followed by drone strikes Tuesday by Yemen's Huthi rebels on a major Saudi oil pipeline, which provided an alternative export route if the Strait of Hormuz closed. Iran has repeatedly threatened to prevent shipping in Hormuz in case of a military confrontation with the United States, which has imposed sanctions on Tehran in recent months.

Source: Bangkok Post May 19, 2019 04:07 UTC