Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched a ballistic missile early Saturday, targeting an oil tanker in the Red Sea. The Panama-flagged, Greek-owned vessel sustained damage in the attack, which is believed to be linked to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
While the Houthis have not officially claimed responsibility for the assault, recent incidents include the downing of a U.S. military MQ-9 Reaper drone over Yemen. These attacks have also disrupted shipping in the region, affecting the crucial maritime route leading to the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean Sea.
The targeted oil tanker, named Wind, had recently visited Russia and was en route to China when it was struck. The missile caused flooding on board, resulting in a loss of propulsion and steering. Fortunately, the crew managed to restore control, and the vessel continued its journey without any reported casualties.
Both the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center and private security firm Ambrey confirmed the attack, with Ambrey noting that it sparked a fire on the tanker. The Houthis have a history of delays in claiming responsibility for their actions, which can take hours or even days.
These attacks are part of a series of incidents in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with the Houthis demanding an end to the conflict in Gaza. The rebels have targeted multiple vessels in recent months, with over 50 reported attacks, including the seizure and sinking of ships.
Despite a decrease in Houthi attacks due to intensified airstrikes by a U.S.-led coalition in Yemen, maritime traffic in the region remains cautious. The rebels recently claimed to have shot down a U.S. drone in Marib province, an area controlled by allies of Yemen’s exiled government.
Since the Houthi takeover of Sanaa in 2014, the U.S. military has lost several drones to the rebels. The MQ-9 Reaper drones, valued at around $30 million each, have been targeted by the Houthis, who accuse them of engaging in hostile actions within Yemeni territory.
