A distressing incident unfolded off the coast of Yemen as an Antigua and Barbuda-flagged cargo ship came under attack, resulting in a fire onboard after being struck by a missile. The incident, reported by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), underscores the challenges faced by vessels navigating through volatile waters near Yemen.
The British security firm Ambrey detailed the sequence of events, stating that the cargo ship was targeted by a missile approximately 83 nautical miles southeast of Aden, Yemen’s major port city. The missile strike caused a fire on the vessel, which was fortunately contained before further damage occurred.
According to Ambrey’s advisory note, the ship was traveling southwest along the Gulf of Aden when the missile struck its forward station. Despite the intensity of the attack, the crew managed to neutralize the fire, preventing a potentially catastrophic situation.
Further reports from Ambrey revealed that a second missile was sighted during the incident but did not impact the ship. Additionally, individuals on small boats in the vicinity reportedly opened fire on the vessel, adding to the tense and dangerous circumstances faced by the crew.
In response to the attack, the cargo ship altered its course towards port while increasing its speed. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among the crew members. The incident highlights the ongoing security threats posed by Houthi militia in Yemen, who have previously targeted ships in the region as part of their conflict-related activities.
The Houthi fighters, aligned with Iran and controlling significant parts of Yemen, have been engaged in targeted drone and missile strikes aimed at disrupting maritime traffic in the Bab al-Mandab Strait and Gulf of Aden. These attacks have forced shipping companies to reconsider their routes, often opting for longer and more costly journeys to avoid the high-risk areas.
As maritime security remains a paramount concern in the region, authorities and shipping companies continue to monitor and navigate through the complex challenges posed by conflict zones, ensuring the safety of crew members and cargo amid volatile conditions.
The missile strike on the cargo ship off Yemen’s coast serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security risks faced by vessels navigating through conflict zones. As maritime trade operations adapt to mitigate these risks, efforts to maintain safety and security in strategic waterways remain a top priority to safeguard international shipping routes and maritime commerce.
Sources By Agencies
