Rubymar vessel sustains oil loss and water infiltration following Houthi missile assault

The U.S. Central Command has reported that the ship MV Rubymar was hit by an anti-ship ballistic missile fired from a Houthi-controlled area in Yemen, causing an 18-mile-long oil slick. The attack occurred on February 18, forcing crew members to abandon ship. The ship, which was carrying over 41,000 tons of fertilizer, remains afloat but is slowly taking on water and is in danger of sinking, which could worsen the environmental disaster in the Red Sea.

The unprovoked attack by Iran-backed Houthi terrorists has caused significant damage to the ship, with images showing the stern of the ship lying deep in the water. The Houthis have been carrying out drone and missile attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November, posing a threat to shipping in the region. Despite US and British military strikes, the attacks have continued, endangering the fishing industry, coastal communities, and food imports.

The U.S. Central Command has condemned the reckless attack by the Houthis, emphasizing the disregard for the regional impact of their actions. The incident highlights the escalating tensions in the region and the need for measures to protect shipping and prevent further environmental disasters. The situation remains precarious with the MV Rubymar at anchor and slowly taking on water, posing a potential risk to the marine ecosystem in the Red Sea.

Source .