ALBAWABA - In a significant and alarming incident, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi have launched ballistic missiles, targeting two renowned cargo ships owned by MSC and Hapag-Lloyd AG companies in the Red Sea. The attacks resulted in fires breaking out on both vessels.
A spokesperson from the U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that a ballistic missile, originating from the Houthi-controlled region in Yemen, hit a cargo ship named MSC Palatium III. This ship, flying the Liberian flag, was sailing near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea. The current status of potential injuries or damages remains uncertain pending further investigation.
Fire Engulfs MSC Palatium III, Hapag-Lloyd AG Ship Hit in Separate Incident
Simultaneously, Ambrey, a reputable British maritime security firm, reported a separate incident involving the vessel "Al Jasrah," affiliated with the German-based Hapag-Lloyd AG. The ship sustained damage in what is being described as an "air attack," resulting in a fire on the ship's deck, with a container plunging into the sea. Ambrey specified that the rocket attack occurred as the vessel was navigating south of the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, approximately 50 nautical miles north of the Mocha Port in the Red Sea.
Persistent Naval Threats in the Red Sea by Houthi Forces
This recent assault adds to the ongoing series of threats posed by Houthi army in the Red Sea. On December 12, they announced the targeting of a Norwegian oil tanker destined for Israel, which had reportedly ignored previous warnings. Despite assurances from the United Kingdom Maritime Agency regarding the safety of the ship and its crew, Houthi leader Abdulmelik al-Husi had previously issued warnings about targeting Israeli vessels in the Red Sea during a televised address on November 14.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree reiterated on November 19 that, in response to Israel's actions against the blockaded Gaza Strip, they would target any vessel flying the Israeli flag. Subsequently, the Houthis executed drone and missile strikes on two Israeli ships, "Unity Explorer" and "Number Nine," in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait.
Growing Global Concerns Surrounding Maritime Security
The escalating frequency of attacks in the Red Sea has raised international concerns, prompting Israeli maritime company ZIM to declare on November 29 that it would avoid using the Suez Canal due to security apprehensions in the Oman Sea and the Red Sea.
On December 4, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) revealed that four attacks targeted three commercial ships in international waters south of the Red Sea. The U.S. Navy destroyer "USS Carney" responded to distress calls from the vessels and reportedly neutralized three drones approaching the ships while providing assistance.
