Title: Escalation in Red Sea Attacks Raises Concerns Over Renewed Houthi Campaign
Renewed Attacks Threaten Red Sea Shipping Lanes
A surge in maritime attacks in the Red Sea after months of relative calm has intensified speculation that the Houthi movement’s campaign in solidarity with Gaza may be resurging.
According to a report by Al Jazeera, five crew members of a Liberian-flagged cargo ship were rescued following an attack attributed to Yemen’s Houthi group. At least three sailors from the 22-member crew were confirmed killed in the assault.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) stated that a search-and-rescue operation was launched after the Greek-owned vessel Eternity C was struck on Monday. The ship reportedly sustained “significant damage” and lost all propulsion before sinking near the Houthi-controlled port city of Hodeidah.
Houthi Claims and Regional Tensions
Yahya Saree, a Houthi spokesperson, asserted that the group targeted the Eternity C with drones and missiles as it headed toward the Israeli port of Eilat. The Houthis maintain that their actions are in support of Palestinians facing Israeli military operations in Gaza, vowing to disrupt shipping linked to Israel until aggression ceases.
These strikes mark the first major attacks on Red Sea shipping lanes since late 2024, signaling a potential resurgence of armed threats to this critical waterway.
International Reactions
Tom Bruce, a spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office, condemned the attacks, stating: “These assaults represent an ongoing threat to regional maritime security and economic stability.” He reaffirmed commitments to safeguarding navigation rights.
The UN Security Council convened an emergency session, where Hans Grundberg, the UN envoy for Yemen, warned of escalating tensions. “The safety of shipping in the Red Sea must be guaranteed,” he stressed, urging restraint from unilateral actions that harm Yemeni civilians.
Representatives from the UK and China also denounced the attacks, with China calling for respect for national sovereignty and de-escalation.
Broader Implications
The Houthi movement’s renewed maritime campaign underscores the fragile security landscape in the region, with global powers closely monitoring developments to ensure stability in vital trade routes. Diplomatic efforts remain crucial in mitigating further escalation.