A British vessel has been struck by a missile and is on fire near Yemen, according to UK Maritime Transport Operations (UKMTO) centre.
The UKMTO has received report of an incident 60 nautical miles south east of Aden, Yemen.
Chiefs say that authorities have been informed and are responding.
Houthis said their forces carried out an operation targeting "the British oil tanker Marlin Luanda" in the Gulf of Aden.
Houthis confirmed their forces carried out an operation targeting 'the British oil tanker Marlin Luanda'Vessel FinderUS officials confirmed that oil tanker Marlin Luanda is ablaze.
While a Pentagon chief said the vessel has sustained damage and a navy ship from the Prosperity Guardian is on its way to assist the damaged tanker.
In a statement issued on Friday evening, it said: "UKMTO has received a report of an incident 60NM South East of Aden, Yemen.
"CSO reports that a vessel has been struck and is currently on fire. They are requiring assistance. Authorities have been informed and are responding."
Houthis military spokesperson, Yahya Sarea said the group: "carried out a targeting operation on the British oil ship (MARLIN LUANDA) In the Gulf of Aden, using a number of appropriate naval missiles, the strike was direct, and resulted in the burning of the vessel".
At the beginning of this week, a second series of UK and US air strikes were launched.
Rishi Sunak issued a warning to Houthi rebels, threatening further strikes if the attacks continue.
Giving a statement in the House of Commons, he said: "I want to be very clear. We are not seeking a confrontation.
A Houthi policeman takes part in a protest against recent U.S.-led strikes on Houthi targets
Reuters"We urge the Houthis and those who enable them to stop these illegal and unacceptable attacks.
"But, if necessary, the United Kingdom will not hesitate to respond again in self-defence.
"We cannot stand by and allow these attacks to go unchallenged. Inaction is also a choice."