ALBAWABA - The Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen has claimed responsibility for attacking two ships in the Red Sea with missiles and drones. The Houthis justified the attacks by accusing the ships of violating a ban on access to Israeli ports.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sari announced the operations via the Al-Masirah television channel. Sari detailed that the Houthi "naval forces," "drone forces," and "missile units" were involved in two separate military operations targeting the ships AAL GENOA and Elbella. Both ships were struck accurately using ballistic missiles and drones, according to Sari. However, he did not provide specific information about the ships' flags or their current conditions.
The Houthis, supported by Iran, have been seizing and attacking commercial ships in the Red Sea since October 31, 2023. These actions have been framed as a response to Israeli attacks on Gaza. The targeted ships are alleged by the Houthis to be linked to Israeli companies.
In the wake of these incidents, numerous shipping companies have suspended their operations in the Red Sea due to security concerns. On December 18, 2023, the United States announced the formation of a multinational "maritime task force" named "Operation Sentinel." This coalition aims to safeguard global maritime trade and counter Houthi threats.
The Houthis also declared they would target all U.S. and U.K. ships following attacks on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen by these nations.
