Houthi Rebels Target Ship in Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Ending 18-Day Lull in Attacks

Houthi rebels targeted a ship traveling through the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait on Monday, marking the end of an 18-day lull in reported attacks attributed to the group, The Associated Press reports.

The vessel, identified as the Liberian-flagged bulk carrier Motaro, escaped the attack unscathed, according to authorities.

The attack comes amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, which has seen the Houthis escalate their attacks on ships traversing the Red Sea corridor. These attacks have disrupted international shipping through the region, which once transported goods valued at $1 trillion annually.

The ship’s captain reported two explosions near the vessel, but confirmed the crew and the ship itself were safe. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the attack, stating that the vessel was not transmitting its position at the time and had a private armed security force on board – a common measure adopted by ships in response to the Houthi threat.

Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed responsibility for the attack, saying the rebels had hit the Motaro. He also alleged two additional unreported attacks in the Arabian Sea, without offering any evidence. The Iranian-backed Houthis are known for exaggerating their claims.

The last reported Houthi attack occurred on October 10th, targeting the Liberian-flagged chemical tanker Olympic Spirit. The reason for the 18-day lull is unclear, but it coincides with the US military’s use of B-2 stealth bombers to target underground bunkers used by the Houthis on October 17.

Since the start of the Gaza conflict last October, the Houthis have targeted over 90 merchant vessels using missiles and drones. They have seized one vessel, sunk two, and killed four sailors. While some missiles and drones have been intercepted by a U.S.-led coalition, others have missed their targets, including Western military vessels.

The Houthis claim their attacks are aimed at forcing an end to Israel’s campaign against Hamas in Gaza by targeting ships linked to Israel, the US, or the UK. However, many of the targeted ships have minimal or no connection to the conflict, including some bound for Iran.