Houthis Attack Ship in Gulf of Aden
The Iranian-backed Houthi militia in Yemen targeted the Liberian-flagged container ship MV Groton as it sailed in the Gulf of Aden, in what was reported to be the first attack on a commercial vessel since Israel’s airstrikes on the port of Hodeidah on July 20 .
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and British security firm Ambrey confirmed that the ship was hit by a ballistic missile 230 kilometers east of the Yemeni port of Aden. However, an inspection found no water intrusion or oil leaks, crew members are safe and the ship is heading for the nearest port.
Statement from the Houthis and Claim of Shooting Down a US UAV
Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree reported that the MV Groton ship was targeted with ballistic missiles, while the Houthis also announced that they shot down a US-made MQ-9 Reaper Armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) in the Saada region of northern Yemen. Images of the downed UCAV were also shared with the public.
The Houthis have been launching drone and missile attacks on international commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden since November in response to Israel’s attacks in Gaza, raising security concerns in the region and threatening international maritime trade.
