The council has updated Operation ATALANTA’s mandate to enhance maritime security in Somalia, the Gulf of Aden, the West Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea. The goal is to combat piracy and illicit trafficking at sea by strengthening regional maritime security. Collaboration with Operation ASPIDES and rebranding the Maritime Security Center will further bolster these efforts.
Yemen’s Houthi militias targeted the MV Groton with rockets in the Gulf of Aden, the second assault on the vessel. The crew was unharmed, and the ship undamaged. The militants have been conducting attacks in solidarity with Palestinians, posing a threat to maritime trade activities in the region. Diplomatic resolutions are needed to safeguard maritime security.
The UKMTO reported a maritime security incident near Yemen, with a small boat approaching a vessel at high speed. Yemen supports Palestine against Israeli occupation, leading to conflict with Israel. The region’s complexities involve various actors in conflicts and alliances. Efforts to address security challenges are crucial for safe maritime operations in the area.
Two explosions near a vessel 57 nautical miles south of Aden were reported by UKMTO. No further details were provided. Yemenis show support for Palestine after Israeli attacks on Gaza. US and UK form a military coalition to support Israel against Yemen. Concerns rise over escalating violence in the region.
U.S. forces have recently targeted Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, destroying drones, ground control stations, and missiles. The Iran-aligned Houthi movement claimed attacks on a container ship and US destroyers. Despite this, CENTCOM emphasized the threats posed by such actions, urging regional stability. However, no definitive evidence of attacks on US ships was provided.
British security firm Ambrey reported a merchant vessel encountering two explosions near Yemen’s Mocha. One missile hit water, the other detonated in the air. The vessel, previously silent on its location, shared details with Ambrey. The firm investigates potential Houthi connections. The region faces increased security risks, with the Houthi group carrying out attacks in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
Two ships caught fire off the coast of Yemen in Aden after being hit by missiles, as reported by British maritime authorities. The ships sustained damage but managed to contain the fires and no injuries were reported. The Iran-aligned Houthi militia has been targeting ships in the region in solidarity with Palestinians.
Yemen’s Houthis targeted the attack on the MSC Darwin ship in the Gulf of Aden, resuming attacks on commercial vessels in solidarity with Palestinians. Ballistic missiles were fired at targets in Eilat. The ship was flying the Liberian flag and was between Aden and Djibouti. The US-led airstrikes had reduced attacks until now.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan announced the re-designation of the Houthis as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group. This decision is a response to the militants’ attacks on US military forces and international maritime vessels. The aim is to hinder their access to funding and hold them accountable. The designation will be effective in 30 days.
