Houthi Drone Strikes Liberian Vessel in Red Sea Amid Ongoing Conflict

An aerial drone likely launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels struck and damaged a vessel in the Red Sea, targeting the vital maritime corridor. The attack followed the return of the USS Dwight D Eisenhower after an eight-month deployment. The vessel sustained damage, but mariners reported safe.

An aerial drone, possibly launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels, struck and damaged a vessel in the Red Sea on Sunday, according to officials. This marks the latest attack on the crucial maritime corridor. The Liberian-flagged ship was en route to Qingdao, China, and sustained damage, though mariners were reported safe.

The incident comes as the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower returns home after an eight-month deployment responding to Houthi assaults that have impacted shipping through the vital route connecting Asian, Middle Eastern, and European markets. The attacks, which the Houthis say will persist as long as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, have drastically reduced traffic through the area.

The attack occurred around dawn off the coast of Hodeida, a rebel-held port city. The British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre confirmed the damage and ongoing investigation. The Houthis have not immediately claimed responsibility but are known for delayed acknowledgments.