A suspected attack by Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeted a ship in the Gulf of Aden on Tuesday, marking the latest assault by the group on this crucial maritime trade route.
The incident occurred off the coast of Nishtun, Yemen, near the country’s border with Oman, according to reports from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center. The captain of the vessel reported an explosion in close proximity, although the specific details of the ship’s name and flag were not disclosed. Fortunately, all crew members are reported safe, as confirmed by the UKMTO in a warning to mariners.
The UKMTO further noted that the explosion occurred in an area previously targeted by the rebels. While the cause of the explosion was not elaborated upon, the Houthis are known to employ drones, missiles, and bomb-carrying drone boats in their attacks. The Houthis have not yet commented on the incident, which is typical as they often delay acknowledgment of their actions for hours or days. The last reported Houthi attack in the region was noted on June 28.
Since November, the rebels have targeted over 60 vessels using missiles and drones, resulting in casualties among sailors and the seizure or sinking of several ships. The United States and its allies have conducted airstrikes targeting the Houthis since January, with a recent series of strikes on May 30 reportedly causing casualties among the rebel forces.
The Houthis claim their attacks are directed at ships associated with Israel, the United States, or Britain, as part of their support for the militant group Hamas in its conflict with Israel in Gaza. However, several of the targeted vessels have had minimal or no connection to the Israel-Hamas conflict, including those destined for Iran.