Houthi Rebels Target Commercial Ship in Red Sea, No Casualties Reported

A suspected Houthi rebel attack targeted a commercial vessel late Sunday night in the southern Red Sea, narrowly missing the ship and causing no damage or injuries, The Associated Press reports, citing maritime authorities.

The incident occurred approximately 30 miles west of the Yemeni port city of Mocha, near the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the ship’s captain observed a missile splashing down in close proximity to the vessel.

While the Houthi rebels have yet to claim responsibility, such pronouncements often lag by hours or even days. This latest attack is part of an ongoing campaign targeting shipping in the Red Sea, a vital waterway carrying an estimated $1 trillion in goods annually. The attacks have intensified since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023.

Since October, the Houthis have reportedly targeted over 90 merchant vessels using missiles and drones, resulting in the seizure of one ship, the sinking of two, and the deaths of four sailors. Other attacks have been thwarted by a U.S.-led coalition patrolling the Red Sea or have simply missed their targets, which have included Western military vessels.

The Houthis claim their actions are intended to pressure an end to Israel’s military operations in Gaza. However, many of the targeted ships have had little or no connection to the conflict, including some destined for Iran. The rebels have also engaged in aerial attacks, notably shooting down multiple American MQ-9 Reaper drones.

On November 11, two US Navy warships were targeted by multiple drones and missiles in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, but those attacks were unsuccessful.