Damaged ship under fire in Red Sea as attacks resume
Red Sea Under Siege: Huthi Attacks Intensify
A damaged cargo ship is facing relentless assaults in the Red Sea, marking a troubling resurgence of attacks by Yemen’s Huthi rebels. The vessel, named Eternity, was targeted shortly after the Huthis claimed responsibility for an earlier strike on another cargo ship, the Magic Seas. This escalation follows a period of relative calm and raises concerns about maritime safety in this crucial shipping lane.
Continuous Assault on the Eternity
The Eternity, a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier, has suffered significant damage and has lost all propulsion capabilities. According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, the ship is currently surrounded by small craft and is under continuous attack. The Huthi rebels have not officially claimed responsibility for this latest incident, but their recent activities suggest a renewed focus on disrupting maritime operations in the region.
On Monday, the Huthis launched an attack on the Magic Seas, utilizing unmanned boats, missiles, and drones. This marked their first assault on a cargo vessel in 2023. The crew of the Magic Seas was successfully rescued, but the situation remains dire for the Eternity, which has 22 crew members on board, most of whom are from the Philippines. The Philippine government is closely monitoring the situation and has expressed concern for the safety of its citizens.
The Huthi rebels began targeting ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden following the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, claiming to act in solidarity with the Palestinian cause. In response, Israel has conducted several airstrikes on Yemen, including recent attacks on the port city of Hodeida. This ongoing cycle of violence poses a significant threat to maritime trade and regional stability, as tensions continue to escalate in the area.
