Houthis Attack Ships in Three Seas, Targeting Israeli and US Vessels

The Yemeni Houthis, an Iran-backed group, have launched attacks on six ships in three different seas, including the Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier Laax, which was damaged in a rocket attack off the coast of Yemen. The attacks also targeted the Morea, Sealady, Alba, Maersk Hartford, and Minerva Antonia in various seas. The US-flagged container ship Maersk Hartford, however, was not targeted by a drone or missile attack according to the company’s chief operating officer.

The Houthis have been carrying out attacks in solidarity with Palestinians in Israel’s Gaza war, expanding their attacks from the Red Sea region to other waterways. Despite the attacks, the Laax was able to reach its destination safely with no injuries onboard. The Greece-based owner of the ship has no connection to Israel or the United States, and the ship is moving towards Bandar Imam Khomeini in Iran. The Houthis have announced plans to attack ships heading to Israeli ports, as well as US and British ships.

The Houthi campaign has caused disruptions in global shipping traffic, sinking one ship, hijacking another, and killing three crew members. Ships have been forced to avoid the Suez Canal and reroute their trade around Africa. The attacks come as Israeli tanks entered the heart of Rafah, despite an order from the International Court of Justice to cease attacks on the city where Palestinians have sought refuge. Security and maritime sources have confirmed the attacks, with some ships reporting damage but no significant incidents reported on the Maersk Hartford.

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