In a recent incident, the Houthi movement claimed responsibility for striking a US-operated merchant ship named KOI in the Red Sea. Maritime security firm Ambrey reported an explosion on a vessel south of Yemen’s port of Aden, without specifying the ship. The KOI, identified as a Liberian-flagged container ship operated by UK-based Oceonix Services, was targeted, according to Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea.
Sarea stated that the attack involved “several appropriate naval missiles,” and the ship was allegedly en route to the “ports of occupied Palestine,” referring to Israel. The Houthis consider Israeli, US, and British ships as legitimate targets due to perceived aggression against Yemen. Sarea warned of retaliation against “British-American escalation,” emphasizing that such ships in the Red and Arabian Seas are deemed legitimate targets.
Simultaneously, the US conducted new airstrikes in Yemen, targeting 10 drones reportedly being prepared for launch. US Central Command asserted that these drones posed a threat to merchant vessels and US warships in the region. All 10 drones were destroyed, along with a Houthi drone ground control station. The US also reported its warship downing three Iranian drones and a Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile in the Gulf of Aden.
These developments reflect heightened tensions in the region, impacting international trade and raising concerns about supply bottlenecks. The Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have contributed to disruptions in global trade routes. Meanwhile, the broader context includes the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which intensified following an infiltration incident involving hundreds of Palestinian gunmen from Gaza in southern Israel, resulting in casualties and hostages.
The situation remains dynamic, with the Houthi movement continuing to assert its military actions against perceived adversaries, and the US responding to threats in the region. As events unfold, the impact on regional stability, trade routes, and diplomatic relations will be closely monitored.