The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported that a bulk carrier, which had already been damaged by a Houthi missile attack off Yemen’s coast on 28th May, suffered further damage from a second strike, Reuters highlights.
As explained, maritime security and shipping sources identified the vessel as the Marshall Islands-flagged Laax.
UKMTO WARNING INCIDENT 075 UPDATE 002
ATTACKhttps://t.co/p9E3xfVFel#MaritimeSecurity #MarSec pic.twitter.com/YDtFrTMJ3g
— United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) (@UK_MTO) May 28, 2024
The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have launched over 50 attacks in the Red Sea since November, claiming solidarity with Palestinians. These attacks have since extended into the Indian Ocean.
As informed, the crew involved in Tuesday’s incidents are safe, and the Laax is continuing to its next scheduled port in the United Arab Emirates, according to an updated report by the UK maritime security body. The second strike occurred 33 nautical miles northwest of Al Mukha, Yemen.
Earlier on 28th May, the Laax issued a distress call after sustaining damage to its cargo hold and taking on water approximately 54 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah, according to British security firm Ambrey. Greek shipping sources mentioned that the Laax was heading to a nearby port to assess the damage, though it was unclear if this port was in the UAE.
