Second Cargo Ship Assault in Red Sea
A commercial cargo ship was attacked off the coast of Yemen near Hodeida on Monday, leading to the injury of two crew members and the reported disappearance of two others. This incident marks the second attack on a vessel in the Red Sea within a span of just 24 hours, raising alarm among maritime observers.
The prior day, Yemen’s Houthi rebels had claimed responsibility for a similar strike, wherein gunmen targeted a commercial ship using small boats and rocket-propelled grenades, prompting the crew to abandon their vessel. This assault was noted as the first of its kind against commercial shipping in this vital maritime corridor in several months.
Details of the Latest Incident
According to reports from UK-based security firm Ambrey, a Liberia-flagged bulk carrier was approached by two skiffs and unmanned aerial vehicles while navigating northbound in the Red Sea. The skiffs opened fire on the vessel, resulting in an armed response from the ship’s security team.
The injuries sustained by the crew and the additional two missing members have heightened concerns about the safety of shipping routes in the region, which are essential for global commerce. The UK Maritime Trade Operations, overseen by the British Navy, confirmed that the attack occurred approximately 51 nautical miles west of Hodeida.
Escalating Tensions Amid Ongoing Conflict
The recent surge in attacks can be traced back to the ongoing conflict sparked by the Gaza war that began in October 2023, during which the Houthis have increasingly targeted Israeli interests and commercial vessels. This has compelled shipping companies to reroute their vessels around the southern tip of Africa to avoid confrontation.
In retaliation, Israel has conducted multiple airstrikes in Yemen, targeting key locations including the port city of Hodeida. Notably, a Houthi spokesperson claimed responsibility for targeting the ‘Magic Seas’ ship using multiple unmanned boats and missiles, asserting that the vessel had suffered a direct hit.
Israeli Response and Houthi Claims
Israel has maintained that its strikes are aimed at dismantling Houthi infrastructure deemed hostile. The Israeli military indicated that their operations targeted ports like Hodeida and Salif as part of a strategy to counter the Houthi threat to commercial shipping and Israeli territories.
Following the Israeli airstrikes, Houthi forces launched missiles toward Israel, including aims at Ben Gurion airport and other strategic locations. Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree declared these missile attacks as retribution for the Israeli strikes, signaling an escalation in retaliation following a series of back-and-forth attacks.
Impact on Regional Maritime Operations
As the conflict intensifies, maritime trade routes in the Red Sea are increasingly at risk, prompting urgent discussions regarding the security of commercial shipping. The ongoing assaults have raised insurance and operational costs for shipping companies, driving them to seek alternative routes that are considerably longer and more expensive.
The situation remains fluid, with maritime stakeholders urging for international intervention and assistance to ensure the safety and security of navigation in this critical area, which plays a pivotal role in global trade.
