A cargo ship flying the flag of Antigua and Barbuda was the target of a missile attack off the coast of Yemen on Saturday night, causing a fire to break out on board. The incident, which occurred in the Gulf of Aden, was reported by maritime security firm Ambrey. Fortunately, no injuries were reported despite the intense situation.
The attack on the cargo ship involved two missiles, with one hitting the forward station of the vessel, resulting in a fire that was quickly extinguished. The second missile missed its target, but small boats in the area began firing on the ship, forcing it to change course towards the port. The swift response from the crew and security measures in place helped prevent any casualties during the attack.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), managed by the Royal Navy of Britain, confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation was underway. Vessels in the region were advised to proceed with caution due to the heightened security risk in the area. The attack on the cargo ship is part of a series of drone and missile strikes carried out by Houthi rebels in Yemen, who are backed by Iran.
The Houthi rebels have been targeting Israeli-linked shipping as part of their campaign, citing support for Palestinians as their motivation. These attacks have led to disruptions in maritime trade routes, with some shipping companies opting to avoid the Red Sea by diverting their vessels around southern Africa. This route normally handles approximately 12 percent of global trade, highlighting the significant impact of the ongoing conflict on international commerce.
In response to the attacks on shipping, the United States and Britain have conducted retaliatory strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen since January. Despite these efforts, the rebels have continued their assaults and have explicitly stated their intention to target US and British vessels, as well as any ships heading towards Israeli ports. The escalating tensions in the region have raised concerns about the safety of maritime activities in the area.
The incident involving the cargo ship serves as a reminder of the volatile situation in the Gulf of Aden and the risks faced by vessels navigating through these waters. The swift response from security forces and adherence to safety protocols helped prevent a potentially disastrous outcome in this instance. As authorities continue to investigate the attack, it is crucial for shipping companies and crews to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety at sea.
The attack on the cargo ship underscores the need for heightened security measures and international cooperation to address maritime threats effectively. By staying informed about potential risks and implementing robust security protocols, shipping companies can mitigate the impact of such incidents and safeguard their vessels and crew members. As the situation in the region evolves, it is essential for all stakeholders to work together to maintain the safety and security of maritime operations in these challenging waters.