Missile Strikes European-Owned Ship in Red Sea Near Yemen

Written by Henrik Rothen

Jan.16 - 2024 4:11 PM CET

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Illustration of a bulk carrier - Photo: Shutterstock.com
Illustration of a bulk carrier - Photo: Shutterstock.com
Missile Strikes European-Owned Ship in Red Sea Near Yemen.

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A Malta-flagged, Greek-owned bulk carrier was reportedly struck by a missile while transiting in the Red Sea, as reported by the British maritime security firm Ambrey.

According to I24News.tv, the incident, which occurred 76 nautical miles northwest of the Yemeni port of Saleef, was also noted by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), placing the event at approximately 100 nautical miles northwest of Saleef.

While the Houthi group, backed by Tehran, did not claim responsibility for the attack, they have previously threatened to target Israeli-owned and Israel-bound vessels.

This incident comes amidst heightened tensions in the region, following U.S.-led airstrikes on military facilities in Yemen. The Tehran-backed group has declared that American ships would also be targeted in response.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has been active in the area, working to intercept Iranian weapon shipments to the Houthis near the coast of Somalia.

CENTCOM reported seizing "medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs) and anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs), as well as air defense associated components."

This attack on a European-owned commercial vessel underscores the ongoing risks in the Red Sea region, particularly near the conflict-ridden areas of Yemen. The situation remains tense as various international players are involved in the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.