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Yemen’s Houthis claim responsibility for Red Sea container ship attack

Newly recruited fighters who joined a Houthi military force intended to be sent to fight in support of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, march during a parade in Sanaa, Yemen December 2, 2023. REUTERS/Khaled Abdullah/ File Photo

Yemen’s Houthi militia, backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for a missile attack on a container ship in the Red Sea and an attempted drone attack on Israel. The targeted vessel, MSC United VIII, operated by MSC Mediterranean Shipping, reported no injuries to its crew, having taken evasive maneuvers and informing a nearby coalition naval warship of the attack.

The Houthi military spokesman, Yahya Sarea, stated in a televised address that the attack on the MSC United was in response to the crew’s alleged failure to respond to warnings. Additionally, the Houthis claimed a military operation targeting Eilat and other areas in Israel, referring to them as occupied Palestine. The spokesman did not specify whether any targets were successfully hit.

Israel confirmed intercepting a hostile aerial target in the Red Sea area, separate from the attack on the ship.

The Houthi group, controlling significant parts of Yemen, including the capital, has been targeting commercial vessels in the Red Sea since October, claiming ties to Israel or destinations related to Israel. This is seen as an expression of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Authority reported two incidents of explosions in the Red Sea near a vessel, involving missiles and drones. No injuries were reported.

These incidents follow the announcement by the United States of a multinational maritime security initiative in the Red Sea in response to previous Houthi attacks on vessels. In response to heightened risks, some shipping lines have suspended operations through the Red Sea, opting for longer routes around Africa.

The Houthis have declared their intention to continue attacks until Israel ceases its actions in Gaza and issued warnings that they would target U.S. warships if the militia group faced retaliation. The situation underscores the complex and volatile dynamics in the region, with potential ramifications for maritime security and global shipping routes.

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