Gulf of Aden Ship Attack Ignites Major Fire, Crew Forced to Evacuate

A commercial ship was struck by a projectile in the Gulf of Aden. The British military reported the vessel caught fire on Saturday. The incident occurred approximately 210 kilometers east of the Yemeni port city of Aden.

The crew was reportedly preparing to abandon the vessel. This suggests significant damage from the attack. No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the assault.

Details of the Maritime Incident

The British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) center issued the warning. It stated the vessel was hit by an “unknown projectile.” A resulting fire broke out on the ship.

According to the maritime security firm Ambrey, the targeted ship was a Cameroon-flagged tanker. It was traveling from Sohar, Oman, to Djibouti. A search-and-rescue operation was subsequently initiated.

Broader Context of Regional Tensions

Yemen’s Houthi rebels have repeatedly attacked ships in the Red Sea corridor. They began these assaults after the Gaza conflict erupted in October 2023. The group claims the attacks are a pressure tactic.

Despite a ceasefire in Gaza beginning on October 10, regional maritime threats persist. The Houthis have not claimed a new attack since the truce. However, this latest incident raises fresh security concerns.

A deadly attack on the Dutch-flagged cargo ship Minervagracht occurred just last month. One crew member was killed and another wounded in that strike. According to the Associated Press, Houthi attacks have sunk four ships and killed at least nine people.

The situation in the Gulf of Aden remains volatile, with this latest ship attack underscoring the persistent dangers to international shipping lanes despite ongoing regional diplomatic efforts.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was responsible for the Gulf of Aden ship attack?

No one has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. This includes Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who have conducted similar assaults in the past.

Were there any casualties in the attack?

Initial reports did not confirm any casualties. The crew was preparing to abandon the burning ship, and a search-and-rescue operation was underway.

What type of ship was attacked?

Maritime security firm Ambrey identified the vessel as a Cameroon-flagged tanker. It was en route from Oman to Djibouti when it was struck.

How have Houthi attacks affected shipping?

Houthi attacks have significantly disrupted a key global trade route. At least four ships have sunk, and numerous others have been damaged or harassed.

Why have Houthi attacks decreased recently?

The group has not claimed an attack since a Gaza ceasefire began on October 10. This has led to a relative lull in maritime incidents claimed by the rebels.

Trusted Sources: Associated Press, United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), Ambrey Analytics.