Yemen’s Houthi rebels have once again targeted a ship traveling through the Red Sea, causing minor damage but no injuries to the crew. The attack on the Marshall Islands-flagged, Greek-operated bulk carrier Star Iris highlights the Houthis’ ability to target ships in various waterways, including the Gulf of Aden and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The ship was en route from Brazil to Iran when it was attacked. It is worth noting that Iran is the primary supporter and supplier of weapons to the Houthi rebels in Yemen’s ongoing war.
The Houthis have claimed responsibility for the attack and referred to the Star Iris as an “American” vessel, although they provided no evidence to support this claim. The motive behind the attack seems to be retaliation against what they perceive as “Zionist crimes” against their counterparts in the Gaza Strip, as well as a response to the ongoing aggression from the United States and Britain towards Yemen.
Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, the Houthi military spokesman, stated that their military will not hesitate to carry out more operations in response to these perceived injustices. This attack on the Star Iris occurred while it was passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which separates East Africa from the Arabian Peninsula. Fortunately, the ship’s captain reported only minor damage, and both the vessel and crew are safe. The ship is now continuing its journey to its next port of call.
This recent attack comes after a brief pause in Houthi attacks on ships. The reason for this pause remains unclear, but it is worth noting that both the U.S. and British militaries have conducted airstrikes targeting Houthi missile arsenals and launch sites in their controlled territories. These airstrikes may have temporarily disrupted their ability to carry out attacks on ships.
Since November, the Houthi rebels have consistently targeted ships in the Red Sea as a response to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. It is concerning that they have frequently targeted vessels with little to no clear links to Israel, thereby endangering shipping in a crucial trade route connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
In conclusion, the recent attack on the Star Iris by Houthi rebels highlights their ability to target ships in various waterways. The motive behind the attack seems to be retaliation against perceived injustices committed by the United States, Britain, and Israel. While the ship sustained minor damage, the crew remains unharmed. The international community should closely monitor the situation in Yemen and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of ships traveling through these waters.
