An Indian-flagged cargo ship sank in the Red Sea on Tuesday after being attacked off the coast of Yemen, marking the first vessel lost in the strategic waterway since the Houthis renewed threats last month to target ships linked to Saudi Arabia.

The vessel, identified as the MSV Faize Noore Oliya, was struck about 13 nautical miles south of the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeidah before capsizing and sinking. Rescue teams from Yemen’s internationally recognized government saved all 14 crew members—13 Indian nationals and one Yemeni—and brought them safely to the port of Mokha.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but Yemen’s internationally recognized government accused the Houthis of using an explosive-laden boat. The vessel had recently called at Saudi ports, matching the Houthis’ recent threat to target Saudi-linked shipping and disrupt traffic through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

The incident comes as the Israeli Navy conducts a large-scale exercise along Israel’s Mediterranean and Red Sea coasts, including near Eilat, simulating attacks on strategic maritime assets. The drills follow threats by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps against Israeli maritime interests and come amid growing regional military coordination.

Israeli defense officials view the Red Sea as a vital strategic corridor, carrying roughly 12% of global seaborne trade and about 10% of global oil shipments. Reports also indicate Israel has expanded its military and intelligence presence near the Gulf of Aden, including discussions about a possible foothold near Somaliland’s Port of Berbera to monitor and counter Houthi threats.

The latest attack has renewed concerns over the security of Red Sea shipping. After Houthi attacks began in late 2023, traffic through the Suez Canal plunged as vessels rerouted around Africa. With the Houthis again threatening commercial shipping, industry observers warn another wave of disruptions may be underway.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)