Escalating Tensions: Houthi Rebel Attacks Disrupt Red Sea Shipping Routes

Yemen's Houthi rebels have targeted vessels in the Red Sea, intensifying their campaign in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict. A recent attack on a vessel southwest of Hodeida caused no physical damage. The Houthis claim to target links to Israel and the U.S., impacting regional shipping heavily.

In a bold move, Yemen's Houthi rebels have escalated their assault on maritime routes, striking near a vessel in the Red Sea as part of their ongoing campaign linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Despite a lack of immediate damage to the targeted ship, the incident highlights the increased risk to $1 trillion in goods passing through the waterway each year.

Authorities reported no injuries from the latest attack, which occurred 130 kilometers southwest of the strategic port city of Hodeida. While the Houthis did not claim responsibility immediately, the situation underscores the group's commitment to disrupting shipping until the wars in Gaza and Lebanon cease.

The perpetrators have targeted over 90 merchant vessels and taken some critical actions like sinking ships and downing American drones since the conflict's onset in October 2023. This has raised international concerns, prompting military responses and airstrikes from the U.S. to curb rebel activities.

(With inputs from agencies.)