Houthi Red Sea Attacks: Understanding the Yemen Rebel Group & Maritime Threats
Yemen's Houthi rebels have renewed attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, escalating regional tensions. The Magic Seas cargo ship was recently targeted with drones, missiles, and explosive boats, forcing the crew to abandon ship before a UAE-led rescue. This marks a resurgence of maritime threats after a period of relative calm.
Who are the Houthis?
The Houthis, based in northern Yemen, seized control of Yemen's capital, Sanaa, in 2014. They're backed by Iran, though both deny direct control, and have expanded their capabilities to include long-range missiles and drones.
The Attack on Magic Seas
The attack on Magic Seas, sailing under a Liberian flag but owned by a Greek company, highlights the vulnerability of this crucial maritime route. The Houthis claimed the ship had previously docked in Israel, justifying the strike. Following the attack, the UAE swiftly rescued all 22 crew members.
Escalating Tensions
The incident, compounded by a deadly attack on the Eternity C, a Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned ship, has sparked concerns about escalating violence and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. In response to these attacks, Israel reportedly carried out airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas near Hodeida. This series of events raises the specter of a broader regional conflict stemming from the Gaza situation.