On June 12th, Houthi militants aligned with Iran claimed responsibility for attacks involving small boats and missiles, Reuters highlights.
These incidents caused a Greek-owned cargo ship to start taking on water and require rescue near Yemen’s Red Sea port of Hodeidah.
The Houthis stated that the Tutor coal carrier sustained significant damage and was at risk of sinking following their attack using an unmanned surface vessel, drones, and ballistic missiles.
The Houthis, who hold Yemen’s capital and densely populated areas, have been targeting international shipping in the Red Sea since November. This action is in solidarity with Palestinians amidst the conflict involving Israel and Hamas. They have sunk one ship, seized another, and caused fatalities among seafarers in a separate incident.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, which serves as a link between ship operators and military/security forces, reported on Wednesday that the Liberian-flagged vessel Tutor was taking on water and unable to maneuver after sustaining damage to its engine room.
UKMTO stated that a small white craft collided with the cargo ship’s stern, and the vessel was also struck by an “unknown airborne projectile.” The vessel’s management was unavailable for immediate comment.