SANAA: Amidst ongoing tensions in the region, a commercial vessel sailing off the southern coast of Yemen encountered an explosion nearby on Sunday, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), a British maritime security agency.
The incident occurred approximately 85 nautical miles east of Aden, Yemen, with the vessel sustaining no casualties or damages. The ship, whose identity remains undisclosed, is said to be proceeding to its next port of call, as confirmed by UKMTO, which operates under the auspices of the Royal Navy.
While no group has claimed responsibility for the reported attack, it follows a series of threats and actions by Yemen’s Houthis targeting shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Over the past four months, the Houthis have launched several missile and drone strikes, disrupting global trade routes and escalating tensions in the region.
The rebels assert that their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians and as a response to Israel’s military operations in the Gaza Strip. They have specifically targeted vessels they perceive to be linked to Israel.
US Strikes Against Houthis in Yemen
In response, the United States, leading an international coalition aimed at safeguarding Red Sea shipping, has conducted strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen since mid-January. The US Central Command recently announced the destruction of unmanned surface vessels and drones in Houthi-controlled areas, underscoring the volatile situation in the region.
The frequency of such incidents has led to a surge in shipping insurance costs and prompted many companies to reroute vessels around the southern tip of Africa, avoiding the perilous waters near Yemen.
Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi has declared intentions to expand attacks on ships taking the longer route around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope, further heightening concerns about maritime security in the area.
