GMM Safety | 2024-06-14 | Case Accidents |

Houthi militants have claimed responsibility for a targeted attack on a Greek-owned and operated cargo ship, the M/V Tutor, flying the Liberian flag in the Red Sea near Yemen’s Hodeidah port.

The Houthis launched drones, ballistic missiles, and unmanned surface vehicle, damaging the M/V Tutor and causing it to take on water on June 12, 2024.

According to US Centcom, the unmanned surface vehicle caused serious damage to the vessel’s engine room.

The vessel, previously docked in Russia en route to India, was struck 66 nautical miles southwest of Hodeidah.

Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among the crew members despite the damage.

The Houthis stated that the vessel was targeted because its owner violated restrictions against entering ports in occupied Palestine.

In response to the incident, US Centcom forces successfully intercepted and destroyed three anti-ship cruise missile launchers and a drone launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen.

Since November, the Houthis controlling Yemen’s capital and essential territories have increased their attacks on international trade channels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

The attacks have interrupted the global trade route, forcing shipping companies to reroute ships from the vital Suez Canal shortcut.

Tensions have risen after the recent detention of United Nations employees by the Houthis, raising concerns about regional stability and the safety of maritime navigation in the area.

The international community, particularly the United States and its allies, continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of maritime security and stability on one of the world’s busiest waterways.

As diplomatic efforts to negotiate a cease-fire in Gaza continue, the conflict’s impact is felt throughout the Red Sea region, affecting global trade and security.

Reference: US Centcom, Reuters