Houthi Rebels Attack Ship in Gulf of Aden as Israel Intercepts Missile near Eilat
In a series of escalating attacks, Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeted a ship in the Gulf of Aden, while Israel intercepted a missile near the port city of Eilat. These incidents come as the rebels intensify their assaults in response to Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
The attack in the Gulf of Aden involved the firing of two missiles, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center. The ship, which remains unnamed, was set ablaze as a result of the missile strike. Ship-tracking data analyzed by The Associated Press identified the vessel as the Islander, a Palau-flagged cargo ship that was en route from Thailand to Egypt. In an attempt to avoid being targeted by the Houthis, the ship had previously sent out messages stating that it had a Syrian crew on board.
Private security firm Ambrey confirmed that the missile attack caused a fire on board the ship, and coalition military assets were responding to the incident. The owners of the Liberian-listed ship could not be reached for immediate comment.
Meanwhile, in Eilat, sirens sounded early in the morning, followed by videos circulating online showing what appeared to be an interception in the sky. The Israeli military later confirmed that its Arrow missile defense system had successfully intercepted a launch in the area of the Red Sea, which was en route to Israel. The target did not pose a threat to civilians and did not cross into Israeli territory.
The Houthis have not claimed responsibility for either attack at this time. However, they typically acknowledge their assaults hours after conducting them. Eilat, located on the Red Sea, is a vital port city for Israel. The Houthis previously claimed responsibility for a missile and drone barrage targeting Eilat on October 31. While these attacks have not caused any damage to the city, they continue to disrupt shipping in the area.
Since November, the Houthi rebels have been targeting ships in the Red Sea and surrounding waters as a response to Israel’s conflict with Hamas. These attacks have often targeted vessels with no clear links to Israel, posing a threat to trade routes connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Some of the targeted ships have carried cargo destined for Iran, the Houthis’ main supporter.
Despite a month of U.S.-led airstrikes, the Houthi rebels remain capable of launching significant attacks. This week, they damaged a ship in a crucial strait and downed an American drone worth tens of millions of dollars. The Houthis have vowed to continue their attacks until Israel ceases its combat operations in Gaza. These actions have garnered international attention and recognition for the rebels.
In response to the attacks, the U.S. military’s Central Command confirmed shooting down a Houthi bomb-carrying drone. U.S. airstrikes also targeted several mobile anti-ship cruise missiles and one mobile anti-ship ballistic missile that were prepared to target ships in the Red Sea. The State Department criticized the Houthis for their indiscriminate attacks on civilian cargo ships, which have caused delays in delivering humanitarian aid to Ethiopia, Sudan, and Yemen.
Contrary to the claims made by the Houthis, these attacks do not provide any assistance or food to the Palestinian people. The State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, emphasized that their actions only exacerbate the situation and hinder efforts to provide much-needed aid.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, it remains uncertain how these attacks will impact the ongoing conflicts and the safety of maritime trade routes. The international community must work together to find a peaceful resolution and ensure the safety of all involved parties.
