Yemen’s Houthi rebels launch missile strike, causing damage to a ship in the Red Sea
A ship in the Red Sea was damaged by a missile attack carried out by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on Monday, according to authorities. This incident marks the latest in a series of assaults on vessels in the vital maritime passage.
The attack occurred near Mokha, Yemen, as reported by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center of the British military. Although the ship sustained damage, its crew remains unharmed and is en route to its next destination. The agency has advised caution for vessels navigating the area.
According to UKMTO, there was an “explosion near a merchant vessel,” with both the ship and crew confirmed to be safe.
The U.S. Central Command military identified the ship in question as the Cyclades, a Greek-owned bulk carrier flying the flag of Malta. Additionally, the military intercepted a drone headed towards the USS Philippine Sea and USS Laboon separately on Tuesday.
In an early Tuesday statement, Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree took responsibility for the attack on the Cyclades and the attempted targeting of the U.S. warships.
On the same Monday, Italy’s Defense Ministry reported that its frigate Virgino Fasan successfully downed a Houthi drone near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Saree did not comment on this particular attack but mentioned another ship targeted in the Indian Ocean, without providing any supporting details.
Allegedly, the Houthis are aiming their assaults at Israeli forces in Gaza, following the outbreak of violence that led to numerous casualties on both sides.
Since November, the U.S. Maritime Administration has recorded over 50 attacks on ships by the Houthis, which has significantly impacted maritime traffic in the region.
The Houthis have faced a decrease in their attacks due to recent airstrikes against them, leading to disruptions in shipping through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Speculation from American officials suggests that the rebels may be running low on weaponry, following continuous campaigns targeting their armaments. However, recent drone and missile attacks indicate a resurgence in their offensive actions.
Furthermore, the U.S. military intercepted multiple drones over the Red Sea on Sunday, considering them a direct threat to vessels in the area.
In response, the Houthis claimed to have downed a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone, showcasing parts that support their assertion. U.S. officials acknowledged the incident without providing further details.
