Yemen’s Houthis claim rescued 11 crew members of Eternity C ship
Houthi Group Claims Rescue Amid Red Sea Attack
In a recent development, Yemen’s Houthi armed group announced the rescue of 11 crew members from the Greek-operated bulk carrier, Eternity C, which they claim to have attacked and sunk in the Red Sea earlier this month. The group also reported recovering one deceased crew member. This incident is part of a broader strategy by the Houthis to target vessels linked to Israel amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Details of the Attack and Rescues
On July 9, the Houthi group stated that they had targeted the Eternity C as it was en route to the Israeli port of Eilat. They claimed the attack was a strategic move to pressure Israel and its allies to lift the blockade on Gaza and halt military operations in the area. Following the attack, the Houthis reported that several crew members were rescued and provided with medical care, although they did not initially confirm any casualties. However, the British Embassy in Yemen later indicated that at least four crew members had died in the assault, with additional individuals still unaccounted for.
In a video broadcast by the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV, the group revealed that two of the rescued crew members were hospitalized for treatment. The Houthi statement also highlighted that the company operating the Eternity C has other vessels linked to Israeli ports, including the HSL NIKE and the FAITH. This assertion underscores the Houthis’ intent to escalate their maritime operations against foreign ships associated with Israel.
Houthi Militants Release Video of Kidnapped ETERNITY C Crew Members
Escalating Maritime Tensions
On July 27, the Houthi group declared their intention to target all foreign vessels connected to Israel, regardless of their destination. This announcement was framed as retaliation for what they described as Israel’s “blockade and starvation” campaign against Gaza. The Houthis have previously claimed responsibility for attacking and sinking another commercial vessel, the Magic Seas, in the Red Sea earlier in July.
The ongoing conflict has raised significant concerns about maritime security in the region, as the Houthis continue to assert their military capabilities. The international community is closely monitoring these developments, as the situation poses risks not only to shipping routes but also to broader geopolitical stability in the Middle East.
