The Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial waterway for global trade, witnessed an explosion near a ship, signaling a potential attack by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. This incident occurred after a period of reduced activity from the Houthis, who had previously targeted ships amid Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
Although the Houthis haven’t claimed responsibility yet, suspicions point to them due to past attacks in the same area. The explosion occurred about 130 km southeast of Djibouti in the Gulf of Aden.
Fortunately, the vessel and its crew reported safety, and authorities are investigating the incident, as reported by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre and maritime security firm Ambrey.
The Houthis have intensified attacks on shipping, with over 50 incidents recorded since November. These actions coincide with a US-led airstrike campaign in Yemen and a decline in shipping activity in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden due to security concerns.
The ongoing conflict stems from the Houthis’ demand for Israel to end its war in Gaza, which has led to substantial casualties among Palestinians. The Houthis, a minority Shiite Zaydi sect, seized control of Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, in 2014, sparking a stalemated conflict with a Saudi-led coalition since 2015.
Despite the Houthis’ targeting of ships and occasional missile launches towards Israel, the vessels attacked have had minimal or no direct ties to the conflict.
The attacks have amplified the profile of the Houthis, drawing attention to their struggle against the Saudi-led coalition and their demand for an end to the Gaza conflict.
Comments