Yemen’s Houthi movement announced on Monday that it has targeted three vessels in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea, claiming the attacks are part of their efforts to enforce a naval blockade on Israel. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea made the statement during a televised address, alleging that the ships were engaged in activities that threatened ports bound for Israel.
The Houthis identified one of the vessels as the Motaro, which was reportedly last tracked off Yemen’s western coast in the Red Sea, en route from Egypt’s Suez Canal to Shanghai. Another ship, the SC Montreal, was targeted in the Arabian Sea while traveling from Seychelles’ Port Victoria to Salalah, Oman. A third vessel, the Maersk Kowloon, was monitored in the western Indian Ocean, also heading from Salalah.
Earlier on Monday, British maritime security firm Ambrey reported two explosions near a merchant vessel approximately 14 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s Al Dhubab. This report followed initial communications from the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which noted three explosions related to an incident located 25 nautical miles south of Yemen’s port of Mokha. However, the UKMTO confirmed that the affected ship and crew were safe and had proceeded to their next destination.
The Houthi leadership emphasized that these actions would continue until Israel halts its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon. This escalation poses considerable risks to commercial shipping in the region, a crucial corridor for global trade that connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
The recent attacks are likely to heighten tensions in an already volatile area, affecting international shipping routes and raising concerns about the safety of vessels operating in these waters. As the Houthis assert their intentions, the implications for regional stability and maritime security remain significant.
The situation continues to develop as international observers closely monitor the actions of the Houthis and the potential responses from affected nations. The ongoing conflict and military engagements in the region emphasize the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure the safety of vital shipping lanes.
