Houthi Missile Hits US Cargo Ship in the Red Sea
A Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile struck a US-owned cargo ship in the Red Sea, marking the first successful attack by the rebel group on a US vessel. The incident comes after recent US-led strikes on the Houthis in Yemen and warnings of further retaliation.
Houthi Missile Attack on US Cargo Ship
In a significant development, a Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile hit a US-owned and operated cargo ship in the Red Sea, according to a statement from US Central Command. This marks the first time the Houthis have successfully targeted a US vessel. The attack comes as tensions escalate in the region following US-led strikes on the Iranian-backed rebel group in Yemen and warnings of more potential strikes in response to Houthi attacks.
The cargo ship, named Gibraltar Eagle and owned by US-based Eagle Bulk, sustained minor damage and no injuries were reported. Eagle Bulk Shipping, the company that operates the vessel, confirmed the incident, stating that the ship suffered limited damage to a cargo hold but remains stable. The vessel is currently continuing its journey out of the area.
Houthi Claim of Responsibility
The Houthis have claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting that they fired multiple accurate missiles. In a video statement, Brig. Gen. Yehya Sare’e, the Houthis’ military spokesperson, announced the military operation targeting the US ship. The group has previously warned that US and UK assets would be considered legitimate targets.
This attack follows several other similar incidents in recent months, with the Houthis launching approximately 30 attacks on international shipping lanes in the Red Sea. As a result, major shipping companies have been diverting their routes to avoid the area.
US Response and Continued Tensions
The US has been vocal in its condemnation of the Houthi attacks and has pledged to defend its assets and interests in the region. In response to the strikes on the Houthis, the Biden administration emphasized that these actions were taken as a last resort to prevent further escalation.
However, the Houthis have vowed to retaliate, escalating concerns about the safety of commercial ships in the Red Sea. Earlier on the same day as the attack, the Houthis attempted to launch another anti-ship ballistic missile that failed in flight and crashed in Yemen.
