Three suspected attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted a ship in the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait linking the Gulf of Aden to the Red Sea. The attacks included one where private security guards shot and destroyed a bomb-loaded drone boat, authorities confirmed on Friday.
The Houthis did not immediately claim responsibility for the assaults. These attacks come after a series of incidents targeting shipping through the Red Sea corridor, believed to be in response to Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip.
Following a recent pause in attacks, the assaults resumed after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, raising concerns about a potential wider regional conflict. Iran supports the Houthis as part of what it calls a regional “Axis of Resistance.”
In the first attack, a rocket-propelled grenade exploded near the ship on Thursday. The second attack occurred early Friday, with a missile detonating close to the vessel. The crew and ship were reported to be safe.
The private security firm Ambrey reported that the ship was hit by a drone in the third attack, causing no injuries or physical damage. Security guards on board successfully destroyed the drone boat.
The Houthis have targeted over 70 vessels with missiles and drones since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict, resulting in casualties and disruptions to maritime traffic in the region. The rebels claim their attacks are aimed at ships associated with Israel, the U.S., or Britain to pressure an end to the war.
Since November, Houthi attacks have disrupted the flow of goods through the region, leading to significant economic impacts. The U.S. Navy has also faced heightened combat activity in the area.
Meanwhile, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor fighter jets have been deployed to the Middle East to address threats posed by Iran and Iranian-backed groups. Central Command confirmed the destruction of Houthi anti-ship cruise missiles, a ground control station, and a drone boat in the Red Sea.
