A Greek-owned, Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier was attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels earlier this week while carrying a cargo of grain bound for Iran, the rebels' main benefactor. The Laax, targeted in the Red Sea corridor, is part of the Houthis' ongoing campaign to pressure Israel and the West over the conflict in Gaza. The attacks have disrupted shipping in the region, impacting vessels associated with Iran, China, and Russia.
Initially, the Laax was reported to be heading to Fujairah in the UAE, but its destination was later changed to Bandar Khomeini, Iran. French naval forces based in the UAE confirmed the grain shipment's intended destination and inspected the damage caused by the attack, which involved drones and missiles. Fortunately, no dangerous explosives were found onboard after the inspection.
