Houthi Rebels Attack Ships in Red Sea Amid Escalating Tensions
- Houthi rebels attacked a Liberian-flagged cargo ship in the Red Sea.
- The Greek-owned Eternity C was surrounded and attacked by the Houthis.
- At least two crew members were injured during the bombardment of Eternity C.
- The rebels previously claimed to have sunk the Greek-owned Magic Seas.
- Over 100 merchant vessels have faced Houthi missile and drone attacks since late 2023.
Houthi rebels escalate their attacks on maritime traffic
Yemen’s Houthi rebels have ramped up their maritime activity, launching an hours-long assault on a Liberian-flagged cargo ship in the Red Sea. This escalation follows the rebels’ earlier claim of sinking another vessel in the region, raising serious concerns about the safety of navigation in this key maritime corridor. The ongoing aggression indicates a potential resurgence of hostilities that could dramatically affect shipping and maritime security.
Eternity C under siege as crew faces danger
The targeted cargo ship, identified as the Greek-owned Eternity C, was reportedly surrounded by multiple small boats and drones carrying bombs as it traveled north towards the Suez Canal. Onboard, at least two crew members sustained injuries, with reports indicating that two others are still unaccounted for. While the Houthis have not officially claimed responsibility for this attack, both the exiled Yemeni government and EU naval forces have pointed the finger at them, suggesting a consistent pattern of hostility towards commercial shipping in the area.
Heightened maritime conflict poses risks for international shipping
In recent days, the tumultuous situation has developed further, with the Iranian-aligned Houthis attacking another cargo ship, the Greek-owned Magic Seas, using a variety of weaponry including missiles and drones. The crew was forced to evacuate, and the group later boasted they sunk the ship. This string of attacks raises concerns not only for regional security but also for international shipping routes, given the immense flow of goods that pass through the Red Sea corridor.
The situation remains tense as the Houthi rebels continue their aggressive strategy against maritime targets in the Red Sea. With two vessels reportedly sunk and increased military capabilities, the potential for broader conflict looms, affecting both regional dynamics and international trade routes. As tensions mount regarding ongoing situations in Israel and Iran, the maritime domain will likely remain a flashpoint.
