Houthi Rebels Target Ship in Strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait

A suspected attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted a ship in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, authorities report. This incident is part of a series of assaults aiming to pressure an end to the Israel-Hamas war. Despite the attacks, the ship and crew were reported safe. Investigations are ongoing.

Yemen's Houthi rebels allegedly targeted a ship in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial link between the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, reported authorities on Thursday.

This attack is part of a broader campaign by the Houthis focusing on maritime shipping channels amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The latest attack comes after a two-week hiatus following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.

The rocket-propelled grenade exploded close to the ship, but the vessel and crew remained unscathed, according to UK Maritime Trade Operations. The US Central Command has deployed F-22 Raptor fighter jets to the region, citing threats from Iran and Iranian-backed factions.

(With inputs from agencies.)