Explosions were witnessed near a commercial ship in the Gulf of Aden, suspected to be the work of Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The incident adds to a series of attacks targeting the crucial shipping route, raising concerns about maritime security.
Explosions Seen Near Commercial Ship in Gulf of Aden Amid Houthi Attacks
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (AP) – A commercial ship navigating through the Gulf of Aden witnessed explosions near the vessel on Friday. The explosions are believed to be the latest in a series of attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeting the vital shipping lane.
The incident occurs following the recent sinking of the ship “Tutor,” representing a possible escalation by the Iranian-backed Houthis. The attacks are linked to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.
The British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center reported that the vessel’s captain saw “explosions in the vicinity of the vessel.” The crew is safe, and the ship continues to its next destination. The extent of any damage is unclear.
Although the Houthis have not immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, this delay is typical of the group’s actions. On Friday, the Houthis released footage showing a drone boat, “Tufan” or “Flood,” allegedly targeting the Tutor.
Since 2014, the Houthis have controlled Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. They have launched more than 60 attacks on ships and other targets, resulting in four sailors’ deaths and the seizure or sinking of three vessels since November.
In response to the escalating threat, the U.S. military has reportedly ordered the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower to return to Norfolk, Virginia, after an eight-month deployment. Another aircraft carrier will reportedly replace Eisenhower in the region.
The U.S. and its allies have responded with defensive measures, such as shooting down drones and targeting Houthi infrastructure. The global shipping industry, meanwhile, continues to reroute traffic to avoid the Red Sea, impacting supply chains.
