A missile believed to be launched from Yemen struck an American-owned and Greek-flagged vessel transiting near the Red Sea. The latest attack from Houthi rebels in Yemen highlighted the ongoing conflict in the region and the increased risk to international shipping.
The M/V Sea Champion was hit earlier this week, causing minor damage to the vessel. The ship had previously brought humanitarian aid to Yemen almost a dozen times in the past. The ship was headed to Aden, Yemen to bring grain to residents of the country.
“We are committed to countering the Houthis’ malign activities, which directly endanger the imports of foodstuff and humanitarian aid to Yemen,” said U.S. Central Command.
Separately, a British-registered ship the Rubymar was hit by two missiles, which caused the ship to take on water.
The Houthis claimed that the vessel took “catastrophic” damage. The crew was able to successfully evacuate.
There have been dozens of attacks on civilian shipping vessels emanating from Yemen since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas last year. Houthi rebels have also fired on American and British naval vessels.
Overall, there have been 21 successful hits from Houthi missiles and drones since the attacks started. This includes those on four American owned or operated ships.
The Houthi + Iran have successfully hit 21 commercial vessels with missiles + drones since November—with at least 4 owned & operated by the U.S. @JenGriffinFNC @laraseligman pic.twitter.com/j7v76OqTcF
— Ian Ellis (@ianellisjones) February 23, 2024
Both the U.S. and British Royal Navy have downed a number of missiles and drones fired from Yemen.
The Houthi rebels are fighting the U.S.-recognized government of Yemen during that country’s long civil war.
The Houthis, along with Hamas, are being supported by the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran is allegedly using a nearby ship to help coordinate the missile and drone strikes in and around the Red Sea.
Last year, Houthi rebels seized an Israeli-linked civilian ship and took its crew of 25 hostage.
Following the strikes from the Houthis, the United States and United Kingdom have attacked missile sites in Yemen. While this appears to be having an impact, the Houthis have continued their attacks and have threatened more in the future.
