Suspicious Drone Incident Near Yemen Highlights Ongoing Threats to Maritime Security

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported a suspicious incident involving an unmanned surface drone approaching a merchant vessel near the coast of Yemen, breaking an 18-day period without Houthi attacks in the region. The drone was observed about 45 nautical miles south of Al Mukha in the Bab El Mendeb Strait, with the vessel reporting erratic behavior before departing, according to the UKMTO report. This development comes after a break in Houthi attacks on ships, marking the longest stretch without such incidents since November 23.

Martin Kelly, Head of Advisory at EOS Risk Group, highlighted the pause in Houthi attacks, stating that the UK and US airstrikes may have temporarily impacted the group’s activities. However, Kelly cautioned that the Houthis have demonstrated resilience in the past and could escalate tensions soon to regain control. As evidenced by past patterns, the resumption of attacks coincided with the successful towing operation of the Greek-registered oil tanker MT SOUNION, which was previously set on fire by Houthi militias last month. Under the protection of the EU-led operation ASPIDES, the ship carrying 1 million barrels of crude oil was moved to a secure area in the Red Sea, still ablaze.

Since November 2023, the Iran-backed Houthis have targeted over 80 merchant vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, resulting in casualties, stranded crews, and disruptions to global maritime trade. The attacks, allegedly linked to solidarity with Palestinians in the Israel-Gaza conflict, continue to pose significant challenges to maritime security. Despite brief lulls, the recurring attacks underscore the ongoing threat posed by the Houthis in the region, necessitating heightened vigilance from maritime authorities and vessel operators.

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