In the latest escalation of tensions in the Red Sea, the Houthi rebels targeted the Marlin Luanda, a commercial ship, on Friday evening.
The attack, which occurred 60 nautical miles south-east of Aden, resulted in a fire in one of the ship’s cargo tanks, prompting urgent efforts to contain it. The Houthi movement claimed responsibility for the strike, stating that they used “a number of appropriate naval missiles” in a direct hit.
Marlin Luanda Hit by Anti-Ship Missile
Trafigura, the operator of the Marlin Luanda, informed the BBC that the strike caused a fire on the starboard side of the ship’s cargo tank. Firefighting equipment is currently being deployed to suppress and control the fire.
US officials, in collaboration with the BBC’s US partner CBS, reported that the tanker was hit by an anti-ship ballistic missile. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries among the crew.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the incident and reported that warships were in attendance, providing support to the vessel. The UKMTO emphasized the safety of the crew, stating that all crew members have been reported safe. Trafigura spokesperson reassured that the safety of the crew is their foremost priority, and they are actively monitoring the situation.
This incident marks the latest in a series of attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels on commercial shipping in and around the Red Sea. Since November, the Houthis have launched numerous attacks on vessels transiting through one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. The attacks are purportedly carried out in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid the conflict with Hamas.
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Global Response Escalates
In response to the Houthi attacks, the US and the UK have undertaken military actions, including airstrikes on the group. The Houthi rebels have warned of increased attacks on shipping in response to these measures. Additionally, the US and the UK are imposing sanctions on the Iran-backed militant group to cut off its financial resources and deter further aggression.
The targeting of the Marlin Luanda underscores the ongoing challenges posed by Houthi rebel attacks in the strategically vital Red Sea. The international community continues to grapple with finding a resolution to the conflict, as the Houthis persist in their aggressive actions. The incident heightens concerns about the safety of maritime travel in the region and reinforces the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of the conflict.
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