A ship traveling through the Red Sea was damaged on Thursday after being struck by an unknown projectile near the port of Hodeidah, Yemen. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which is managed by the British Navy, the vessel sustained damage but did not catch fire, and no crew members were injured.
The situation escalated when two additional explosions occurred close to the same ship, raising concerns about further attacks in the region. The ship, identified by private security firm Ambrey as a Liberian-flagged chemical tanker, was reportedly targeted while sailing near the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeidah.
Though no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack, Yemen’s Houthi rebels are suspected to be behind the incident. The Houthis have been known to carry out missile and drone strikes on vessels in the Red Sea, especially since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Their attacks have previously focused on ships with alleged ties to Israel, the US, or the UK, though not all vessels targeted have connections to the ongoing conflict.
The Red Sea, a vital shipping lane for global trade, has seen over $1 trillion worth of goods pass through its waters each year. The recent increase in attacks has caused concern for the safety of international maritime operations in the area.
The Houthis have reportedly targeted over 80 merchant ships since the war in Gaza began, with some vessels seized or sunk, resulting in the deaths of several sailors. Thursday’s attack marks another escalation, though the Houthis have not yet officially claimed responsibility, which can sometimes take hours or even days.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, global shipping and security agencies are monitoring the situation closely.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.