Possible Explosion Near Vessel off Yemen’s Coast
Dubai: On Monday, a potential incident occurred near a vessel in the Bab Al-Mandab area, and a second event was reported near the southern end of the Red Sea, according to a statement from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
The UKMTO received a report of a possible explosion approximately two nautical miles from a vessel situated 30 nautical miles south of Yemen’s Mokha port. Additionally, a separate advisory mentioned an “incident” 30 nautical miles northwest of Mokha.
Ambrey, a British maritime security firm, also acknowledged receiving information about a potential explosion in the water near a vessel located 30 nautical miles south of Mokha.
The Yemeni Houthi movement, aligned with Iran, has been targeting vessels in the Red Sea region in protest against Israel’s extensive bombardment and invasion of Gaza, triggered by a cross-border attack by Hamas militants on October 7.
In response to the Houthi attacks, two major freight companies, including MSC, the world’s largest container shipping line, announced over the weekend that they would divert from the Suez Canal. The Houthi forces control most of Yemen, prompting concerns about the safety of ships in the Red Sea.
The Suez Canal, a crucial waterway for global trade, facilitates the transportation of energy and goods between Europe and Asia, offering a time and cost-saving alternative to navigating around the entire African continent.
Despite the Houthi pledge to continue attacks until Israel ceases its assault, they hinted at a willingness to de-escalate during Oman-mediated talks about their sea operations. The US expressed its intention to form a coalition to protect ships in the Red Sea and send a signal to the Houthi forces, who have also launched drones and missiles at Israel since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war in October.
