Missile Strike in Gulf of Aden: Houthi Rebels Target Cargo Ship

A missile attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels hit an Antigua- and Barbuda-flagged cargo ship in the Gulf of Aden, leading to a fire on board that was later extinguished. This marks the latest assault on shipping in the region. The rebels, claiming responsibility, have intensified their attacks over the Israel-Hamas war.

In a recent escalation, Yemen's Houthi rebels launched a missile assault targeting an Antigua- and Barbuda-flagged cargo ship in the Gulf of Aden. The strike, taking place late Saturday, ignited a fire at the ship's forward station which was subsequently controlled, according to private security firm Ambrey.

A second missile aimed at the vessel missed its mark, while nearby individuals in small boats opened fire on the ship during the incident. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre corroborated the event, noting ongoing damage control efforts.

Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, Houthi military spokesman, claimed responsibility for the attack in a prerecorded message, alleging the use of both missiles and drones. The Houthis attribute these increasing maritime assaults to their broader campaign against the Israel-Hamas conflict, though many targeted vessels are unrelated to the ongoing war.