A cargo ship is in jeopardy in the Gulf of Aden after being attacked by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The vessel, known as Rubymar, sustained damage on Sunday due to an explosion near the ship. The British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center reported that the ship was taking in water. Fortunately, the crew managed to evacuate safely before the situation worsened.
The Rubymar, a British-registered and Lebanese-operated ship, was carrying Ukrainian grain at the time of the attack. The maritime security company LSS-SAPU confirmed that two missiles were fired at the ship. They also stated that there is nobody on board now and that the owners and managers are considering options for towage.
Houthi Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that the vessel is now at risk of potentially sinking. He mentioned that the ship suffered catastrophic damages and came to a complete halt. This incident follows the Houthis’ claim of downing an American drone in the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah.
In addition to the Rubymar attack, another vessel came under attack in the Gulf of Aden on Monday. The private security firm Ambrey described this vessel as a Greek-flagged, U.S.-owned bulk carrier carrying grain from Argentina to Aden, Yemen. The same ship was attacked again later in the day.
These attacks occurred shortly after the U.S. launched five “self-defense” airstrikes against Houthi rebel positions in Yemen. The strikes targeted three anti-ship missile batteries, an unmanned underwater vessel (UUV), and an unmanned surface vessel (USV). U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that these actions were necessary to protect freedom of navigation and ensure the safety of U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region.
The situation in Yemen remains tense, with ongoing conflicts between Houthi rebels and various international forces. The Houthis have been known to employ unconventional tactics, such as the use of drones and missiles, to target ships and other military assets. The recent attacks on the Rubymar and the Greek-flagged vessel highlight the continued threat posed by the rebels in the Gulf of Aden.
It is crucial for international maritime security organizations and naval forces to remain vigilant in this region. The protection of commercial shipping routes and the safety of crew members are of utmost importance. Efforts must be made to deter and prevent further attacks by the Houthi rebels, ensuring the stability and security of this vital waterway.
As the situation develops, it is essential for governments and international organizations to work together to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen. The safety of innocent civilians, as well as the stability of the region, depends on finding a lasting solution that addresses the root causes of the conflict.
In conclusion, the recent attack on the Rubymar cargo ship by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels highlights the ongoing threat posed by the rebels in the Gulf of Aden. The safety of commercial shipping routes and crew members must be prioritized, and international efforts should focus on finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen.