U.S. commercial ship bombed in Red Sea
U.S. Commercial Vessel Struck by Bomb from Suicide Drone in Red Sea
A thrilling incident unfolded in the Red Sea on Wednesday as a U.S.-owned commercial vessel became the target of a bomb attack by a suicide drone. This marks the second time this week that an American ship has fallen victim to the Iranian-backed Houthis.
Details of the Attack
According to U.S. Central Command, the attack occurred at approximately 8:30 pm (Sanaa time) on January 17. The drone, launched from Houthi controlled areas in Yemen, struck the M/V Genco Picardy, a Marshall Islands flagged, U.S. owned and operated bulk carrier ship in the Gulf of Aden.
Thankfully, there were no injuries reported, and although some damage occurred, the M/V Genco Picardy remains seaworthy and continues its journey.
This incident comes just days after the Houthis fired an anti-ship ballistic missile at another U.S.-owned and operated container ship, the M/V Gibraltar Eagle, off the coast of Yemen.
Multiple Missiles Launched
Reports from British Maritime Security firm Ambrey suggest that the Houthis launched three missiles, but only one successfully hit the ship. The missile strike caused a fire in one of the ship’s holds, adding to the intensity of the situation.
In a separate operation, the U.S. Navy seized a sailing ship last week that was illegally transporting advanced lethal aid from Iran to resupply the Houthi forces in Yemen.
Successful Navy Operation
U.S. Navy SEALs, with the support of helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), executed a daring boarding of the dhow near the coast of Somalia in international waters of the Arabian Sea. The operation resulted in the seizure of Iranian-made ballistic missile and cruise missile components, including propulsion, guidance, warheads, and air defense associated components. These weapons have been used by the Houthis to threaten and attack innocent mariners on international merchant ships transiting in the Red Sea.
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What international actions have been taken to condemn and address the recent attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea
), when a suicide drone laden with explosives struck the commercial vessel. The drone was reportedly launched from the Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen. The explosion caused significant damage to the ship but fortunately, there were no casualties among the crew members on board.
Response from the United States
Following the incident, U.S. Central Command issued a statement condemning the attack and holding the Houthis responsible. The statement termed the attack as a “reckless act of terrorism” and highlighted the threat posed by the Iranian-backed militia group in the region.
The United States has been closely monitoring Houthi activities in the Red Sea as the group continues to pose a significant threat to maritime security. This latest attack underscores the need for enhanced cooperation among regional allies to counter the Houthi’s aggressive actions.
Escalating Tensions in the Region
The attack on the U.S. commercial vessel comes amidst escalating tensions between Iran and the United States in the region. The United States has accused Iran of supporting and arming the Houthis, enabling them to carry out such attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
These recent incidents highlight the challenges faced by the international community in maintaining stability and security in one of the world’s most important shipping lanes. The Red Sea not only serves as a crucial trade route but also plays a vital role in global energy supplies.
International Response
International actors have condemned the attack on the U.S. commercial vessel and called for an immediate end to such acts of aggression. The European Union, the United Kingdom, and other regional powers have expressed their solidarity with the United States and their commitment to safeguarding freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.
Conclusion
The attack on the U.S. commercial vessel in the Red Sea serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by the Iranian-backed Houthis. It calls for a coordinated and robust response from the international community to ensure the security of maritime trade routes and protect global energy supplies.
Efforts to deescalate tensions in the region and hold accountable those responsible for such attacks must be the priority. The United States, its allies, and regional partners should continue to work together to counter the Houthi threat and ensure the safety and security of commercial vessels operating in the Red Sea.
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