Greek Cargo Ship Attacked Off Yemen Coast
A Greek-owned cargo ship, the Magic Seas, was targeted in a violent attack off the coast of Yemen on Sunday. The vessel, sailing under a Liberian flag, was navigating southwest of Hodeidah when it came under assault from armed boats. Despite a swift response from the ship’s private security team, the situation escalated, leading to significant damage and the crew’s evacuation.
Details of the Attack
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the Magic Seas was approached by eight small boats equipped with light weapons and rocket-propelled grenades. The initial attack was met with resistance from the ship’s security personnel, who managed to fend off the assailants temporarily. However, the threat intensified when four unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) struck the ship in quick succession, igniting a fire on board.
As the blaze spread, the crew was forced to abandon the ship. Fortunately, they were rescued by a nearby merchant vessel, and no injuries or fatalities were reported among the sailors. The Magic Seas was en route from Zhuhai, China, to the Suez Canal at the time of the incident. Currently, the ship is adrift and is believed to be taking on water, raising concerns about its condition and the potential environmental impact.
MAGIC SEAS (IMO: 9736169) is a Bulk Carrier and is sailing under the flag of Liberia. Her length overall (LOA) is 199.99 meters and her width is 32.26 meters.
Implications and Ongoing Concerns
This attack highlights the ongoing security challenges in the Red Sea region, particularly concerning maritime safety. The area has seen increased tensions and incidents involving Houthi forces, raising alarms for shipping companies operating in these waters. The Magic Seas incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by vessels traversing this critical maritime route.
As investigations continue, maritime authorities are likely to reassess security protocols for ships in the region. The international community remains watchful, as the implications of such attacks extend beyond immediate safety concerns, potentially affecting global trade routes and regional stability.
