The Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for attacking two civilian ships and a US destroyer in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea. They stated that they targeted the ships in support of Palestinians in Gaza. The Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, reported that ballistic missiles were fired at the American destroyer, naval missiles were aimed at the Captain Paris ship, and drones were deployed against the Happy Condor ship. However, it remains unclear whether any of the attacks were successful.
In response to the reported incidents, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that a vessel located 40 nautical miles south of Yemen’s al Mukha experienced two explosions nearby. Fortunately, the vessel and its crew remained unharmed and were able to continue their journey. The specific identity of the ship involved was not disclosed.
The Houthis, aligned with Iran and controlling Yemen’s capital and most of its populated areas, have been actively engaging in attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea region since November. These attacks have created significant disruptions in global trade, leading ship owners to redirect their vessels away from the Suez Canal. The escalating tensions have also prompted retaliatory strikes from the United States and the United Kingdom since February.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen, exacerbated by the involvement of various regional and international actors, poses a serious threat to maritime security in the region. The targeting of civilian ships and military vessels not only endangers the lives of crew members but also disrupts vital trade routes that are essential for global commerce. The international community must work towards finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen to ensure the safety and security of all those involved in maritime activities in the region.