In a recent development in the volatile Red Sea waters, a merchant vessel targeted by Yemen’s Houthi rebel group survived an attempted missile strike without any damage. Initial reports from the UK’s Marine Trade Operations and security firm Ambrey had suggested damage to the vessel west of Hodeida, a Houthi-controlled port. However, a subsequent inspection in daylight revealed no impact from the missile attack, with the ship and crew confirmed safe and proceeding to their next destination.
The incident follows threats by the Houthi rebels to escalate their military actions, which have already disrupted global trade routes. The vessel, initially thought to be affiliated with Israel, had reportedly changed ownership in February 2024 and was navigating from Singapore towards the Suez Canal, carrying armed guards. This encounter comes amidst other reports of near-misses involving commercial shipping in the region.
Additionally, the Houthi group has claimed to have successfully tested a hypersonic missile, boasting capabilities of reaching speeds up to Mach 8 and intentions of targeting maritime routes and even Israel. These developments mark a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in Yemen, posing increased risks to international maritime security and trade.
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