Houthi Drone Attack Damages UK-Owned Ship in Red Sea
In a recent incident that has raised concerns about the safety of key trade routes, a suspected Houthi drone attacked a UK-owned ship in the southern Red Sea. The attack occurred just west of the Yemeni port of Hodeida, causing slight damage to the ship’s windows on the bridge. Fortunately, no one on board was injured, according to the British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations.
The ship, named Morning Tide and bearing the Barbados flag, is owned by the British firm Furadino Shipping. The company confirmed the details of the attack and reassured that the ship was still en route to its designated stop in Singapore. Private security firm Ambrey also identified the ship and reported that all crew members were safe.
Brigadier General Yahya Saree, a Houthi spokesperson, claimed responsibility for the attack but provided no evidence to support his claim. He also alleged that an American ship in the Red Sea was targeted as well, although US officials have not confirmed any attack on a US vessel.
This is not the first time that Houthi rebels have targeted ships in the Red Sea. Many of their attacks have missed their intended targets, leaving ships unaware that they were fired upon. The Houthis have been carrying out these attacks since November as a show of support for their Hamas allies. Initially, they claimed to target only Israeli ships, but they have since targeted US and UK cargo ships and navy destroyers.
In response to the Houthi attacks, the US and Britain have launched airstrikes against the rebels in Yemen. These airstrikes have destroyed several missile arsenals and launching sites. Just recently, 36 Houthi targets were struck in 10 different locations, including two Houthi drone boats loaded with explosives. The US Central Command stated that these actions were necessary to protect freedom of navigation and ensure the safety of US Navy vessels and merchant ships.
The ongoing attacks have prompted the European Union to launch a naval mission to guard cargo ships in the Red Sea. Seven nations have committed to providing ships and planes for this mission. However, the Houthi rebels have warned that these attacks on their bases and weapons depots will not go unanswered.
As the situation in the Red Sea continues to escalate, it is crucial for international efforts to focus on ensuring the safety of trade routes and protecting ships from further attacks. The Houthi rebels’ actions pose a significant threat not only to the region but also to global trade and security. It remains to be seen how the international community will effectively address this issue and bring stability to the Red Sea.
