The Houthis launched one of their most forceful strikes, with two rounds hitting a Belize-flagged cargo vessel. Reports from the group describe the attack as a strong move aimed at disrupting international shipping in the area. The incident prompted international attention as questions rose about the vessel’s fate and the broader implications of the strike for Red Sea maritime routes.
The Yemeni rebels claimed the ship could sink, asserting that the damage would be a propaganda victory for their cause. Observers noted that the claim would complicate rescue efforts and heighten tensions among maritime operators in the region.
The cargo vessel, which was traveling from the United Arab Emirates toward Bulgaria, had its crew evacuated successfully, though no definitive statement was made about whether the ship ultimately sank. Early assessments from the ship’s company indicated uncertainty about the vessel’s condition and the possibility of towing options, pending a full damage assessment.
Initial reports indicated that the attack struck the stern, and sources on the scene described a chaotic aftermath as rescue teams coordinated with shipping authorities. The incident occurred to the east of Aden, a key chokepoint for international trade and one of the most watched areas in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
On Monday, a separate incident involved a second cargo ship sailing under the Greek flag that requested military assistance after a reported missile attack. The vessel was approximately 185 kilometers from Aden when the alert was raised, signaling continued volatility in the area and prompting allied forces to monitor and respond to evolving threats to commercial shipping.
Meanwhile, the Houthis released video material showing themselves aboard the vessel they attacked, but they did not disclose the ship’s name in those postings. The footage added to the confusion surrounding the incident and raised questions about the intent and timing of the release, as analysts weighed the potential messaging goals behind such publications.
This is not the first time videos have surfaced showing captured ships after such attacks. The pattern has prompted maritime security experts and ship operators to call for closer enforcement of safety protocols and enhanced coordination with naval forces operating in the area.
Earlier statements from the Houthis suggested an intention to threaten merchant shipping in the Red Sea at regular intervals, raising concerns about the safety of navigation lanes and the potential for more incidents that could disrupt regional trade and international supply chains. Government officials and private sector observers have urged caution while assessing the evolving situation, emphasizing the need for verified information and responsible reporting as investigations unfold.