In a recent incident suspected to be orchestrated by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, missiles struck a ship in the Gulf of Aden on Thursday. The vessel caught fire following the attack, which occurred off the coast of Yemen, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Center.
A distress call from the ship, en route from Malaysia to Venice, Italy, was received by the private security firm Ambrey, confirming the missile strike aligned with Houthi targeting patterns.
The Houthis, although not immediately claiming responsibility, have a track record of delayed acknowledgments for such actions. This latest attack comes shortly after their involvement in a boat-borne bomb assault on a commercial vessel in the Red Sea the previous day.
The Houthis, who have controlled Yemen’s capital for nearly a decade, are engaged in a protracted conflict against a Saudi-led coalition, targeting shipping across the Red Sea corridor.
The Houthis assert that these attacks are part of efforts to halt the war and show solidarity with Palestinians. However, these assaults often target ships unrelated to the Israel-Hamas conflict, sparking international concern and condemnation.
Houthi Rebels Launch Missiles, Sparking Ship Blaze in Gulf of Aden.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza, which escalated following Hamas-led attacks on Israel, has resulted in significant casualties among Palestinians and Israelis alike, with thousands reported dead or injured.
According to the U.S. Maritime Administration, the Houthis have intensified their maritime attacks in recent months, with over 50 incidents, including vessel seizures and attacks resulting in casualties. In response to their actions, a U.S.-led airstrike campaign has targeted Houthi positions since January, resulting in casualties among rebel forces.
The situation underscores the volatile security environment in the region, exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical tensions and proxy conflicts. International efforts to stabilize the area have been complicated by the Houthis’ persistent attacks on maritime traffic despite claims of humanitarian or political motivations.
The incident highlights the precarious nature of maritime navigation in the Red Sea corridor, posing risks not only to commercial shipping but also to regional stability and security.
