A cargo vessel was attacked by armed assailants on skiffs off Yemen’s coast in the southern Red Sea, highlighting the persistent security risks in the region. The bulk carrier Lady Naeima issued a distress signal on July 5, stating that multiple skiffs approached within 20 meters and opened fire. The incident occurred approximately 13 nautical miles from Al-Durayhimi, an area controlled by Houthi forces, as reported by maritime security firm Vanguard Tech.
This attack follows a previous incident on July 1, where unauthorized personnel boarded a vessel in the Gulf of Aden, damaging the bridge while the crew sought refuge in a secure area. Despite challenging monsoon conditions, pirate groups have continued their operations in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with the Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) noting a substantial threat level in the Gulf of Aden and a moderate level near the Bab el-Mandeb/Southern Sea route.
In response to the ongoing threat, many shipping companies are opting for the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope to avoid the Red Sea, particularly due to the Houthi’s sustained campaign of attacks since late 2023. While transit numbers in the Strait of Hormuz have been rising, the situation remains volatile, necessitating heightened vigilance despite a reduction in recent escalations.
