A UK maritime agency reported that an incident involving a vessel and small boats approximately 70 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s Aden port has been reclassified as “suspicious activity.” Initially, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) indicated there was an exchange of small-arms fire when a white skiff with five individuals approached a vessel. However, it later clarified that only warning shots were fired, with no weapons aimed at either vessel.
In the area, two additional skiffs were spotted, prompting UKMTO to advise vessels to exercise caution and report any suspicious activities. The agency is currently investigating the situation.
Since 2023, Yemen’s Houthi militants have targeted vessels in the Red Sea, claiming solidarity with Palestinians amid the Israel-Gaza conflict. However, such attacks have ceased following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in October. Despite this, some shipping companies remain hesitant to resume operations in these waters due to lingering concerns.
These incidents have impacted trade routes through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, which are vital for global shipping. Historically, Somali pirate gangs also operated in the region using similar small boats.
Share it now
