The Houthis have struck again, damaging a crude oil tanker in a missile attack off the coast of Yemen. The incident occurred near the city of Mocha, with the Panama-flagged ship hit twice and sustaining damage. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries or deaths, and investigations are underway.
According to reports, the initial missile caused an explosion near the vessel, followed by a second strike involving two missiles. Ambrey, a global risk management firm, reported sighting three missiles and indicated that ballistic missiles were launched from Yemen's Taiz governate.
The Houthis have claimed responsibility for the attack, targeting a ship they identified as the "British" Andromeda Star. However, US Central Command confirmed that the vessel sustained minor damage and is continuing its voyage.
The tanker, previously owned by the UK until November 2023, is currently registered in Seychelles and was engaged in Russia-linked trade. Ambrey advised ship owners to conduct thorough checks on affiliations before transiting the area, as the Houthis may target vessels based on outdated affiliations.
This incident is part of a series of attacks by the Houthis on ships they allege are connected to Israel in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. In response, the US and the UK have targeted Houthi sites in Yemen, leading to further retaliation against vessels believed to be associated with these countries.
These attacks have raised concerns among shipping companies, prompting many to avoid the Red Sea route, which handles approximately 12% of global seaborne trade.
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