Five individuals rescued following suspected attack by Houthis on vessel in the Red Sea.
Five crew members were successfully rescued from the Liberian-flagged cargo ship, Eternity C, following a suspected attack attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement. This incident, reported by maritime monitoring organizations, has had tragic consequences, with at least three sailors confirmed dead and two others injured from the 22-member crew.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center (UKMTO), operated by British military officials, confirmed that search and rescue operations commenced promptly after the attack, which occurred on Monday night. The vessel sustained substantial damage, causing it to lose all power while navigating near Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah, known for its Houthi control. Meanwhile, Ambrey, a security firm based in the UK, confirmed reports that the ship ultimately sank.
Recent developments highlight a resurgence in attacks within the Red Sea, an area that had enjoyed several months of stability. These incidents may signify the beginning of a renewed Houthi campaign, which the group frames as an act of solidarity with the Palestinians amid increasing tensions in Gaza. Although the Houthis have not officially claimed responsibility for the attack on Eternity C, they previously took credit for a similar attack on another cargo vessel, the Magic Seas, resulting in that ship’s sinking. However, all crew members of the Magic Seas were successfully rescued.
Following these events, the Houthis have reiterated their commitment to targeting vessels associated with Israel as part of their broader campaign. They have declared such ships to be “legitimate targets,” asserting their intention to disrupt Israeli navigation in both the Red and Arabian Seas until a ceasefire in Gaza is achieved and restrictions are lifted.
International responses to these developments have included strong criticism from Yemeni officials, the European Union’s Operation Aspides military force, and the United States State Department. They have attributed the attacks to the Houthi rebels, highlighting the ongoing risks to maritime security in the region. A State Department representative emphasized the commitment to protect freedom of navigation, reiterating the necessity of ensuring the safety of commercial shipping against Houthi threats.
The bulk carrier Eternity C, was reportedly on its course to the Suez Canal before it faced assaults inflicted by armed groups utilizing small boats and explosive drones. The grim outcome of this operation included the injury of at least two individuals, including a Filipino crew member.
In a broader context, allegations have arisen regarding reciprocal military activity between Israel and the Houthis, with Israel reportedly targeting multiple ports and installations in Houthi-controlled regions. These military actions underscore the complexities of the regional landscape, where various entities vie for influence and security amidst ongoing conflicts.
The unfolding scenario in the Red Sea calls for heightened vigilance and strategic responses from various stakeholders committed to preserving maritime safety and promoting stability in the region.
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