Two merchant ships sustained damage in the Red Sea following missile and drone attacks, as reported by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incidents highlight ongoing risks for commercial vessels in the region.
In the first incident, a merchant ship reported observing four splashes near the vessel at approximately 0140 hrs, followed by a direct strike from an Uncrewed Surface Vessel at 0500 hrs. The ship’s master reported that the vessel’s number six port ballast tank was punctured but confirmed that the ship would proceed to its next port of call. The attack took place approximately 64 nautical miles northwest of Al Hudaydah, Yemen.
The second incident occurred around 0415 hrs, 97 nautical miles northwest of Al Hudaydah. According to the ship’s master, the vessel was struck by a missile, sustaining damage, though all crew members were reported safe.
These attacks come after a two-week period of relative calm for merchant vessels in the area. Recently, however, Houthi forces claimed responsibility for a “complex attack” involving over 20 ballistic, drone, and cruise missiles targeted at three U.S. Navy ships.
The U.S. military stated that no missiles hit their vessels, as they were able to intercept and neutralise the threats.
Additionally, a significant environmental disaster was averted in the Red Sea last month when the tanker Sounion, set ablaze and adrift following Houthi attacks, was towed to safety under the escort of EUNAVFOR vessels. The tanker was carrying 150,000 tonnes of oil, raising concerns about a potential spill that were ultimately avoided.
These incidents underscore the volatile situation for maritime traffic in the Red Sea, with ongoing risks posed by missile and drone attacks in the region.
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