A ship in the Gulf of Aden caught fire following a suspected missile attack by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The incident, which took place on Thursday, saw the UK Maritime Trade Operations center reporting that two missiles were fired during the attack. The ship affected was a Palau-flagged cargo vessel known as Islander.
In response to the incident, coalition military assets were deployed, as confirmed by the private security firm Ambrey. Sirens were heard in Eilat, Israel, in the early hours of Thursday morning, followed by online videos showing a suspected interception. Israel later confirmed using its Arrow missile defense system to intercept the target.
The Arrow system, designed for destroying long-range ballistic missiles in space, successfully intercepted a launch identified in the Red Sea area. Israeli military sources stated that the target did not breach Israeli territory and posed no danger to civilians. While the Houthi rebels did not immediately claim responsibility for the attacks, they typically acknowledge their involvement within hours.
The assaults took place amidst escalating tensions over Israel’s actions against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The Houthis have been targeting ships in the Red Sea and nearby waters since November, particularly in response to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Ships with minimal or no clear ties to Israel have been the frequent targets, causing disturbances in trade routes.
Despite U.S.-led airstrikes, the Houthi rebels retain the capability to launch significant attacks, such as damaging ships and downing drones. The Houthis have vowed to continue their attacks until Israel halts its operations in Gaza. The U.S. Central Command confirmed shooting down a Houthi drone carrying explosives. U.S. airstrikes targeted mobile anti-ship cruise missiles and ballistic missiles in readiness for use in the Red Sea.
The U.S. State Department condemned the Houthis for targeting civilian cargo ships, which have impeded humanitarian aid deliveries to Ethiopia, Sudan, and Yemen. It emphasized that these attacks do not serve the interests of the Palestinian people. The assaults on cargo ships, including the Sea Champion carrying aid to Aden and Hodeida, have disrupted crucial humanitarian aid efforts. The actions of the Houthis have heightened regional tensions and hampered relief efforts in conflict-affected regions.
The recent attacks underscore the persistent instability in the area and the challenges faced by international endeavors to maintain peace and security. There is an urgent need for addressing the root causes of conflicts and employing diplomatic solutions to alleviate the suffering of affected populations. International cooperation and engagement are pivotal in reducing further violence and fostering lasting peace and stability.
