In a series of escalations, Yemen’s Houthi rebels has claimed responsibility for targeting a British cargo ship and shooting down a US drone over its territory, as tensions in the region continue to mount. The attacks come amidst the group’s demands for an end to Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has led to disruptions in the Red Sea region.
According to Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree, the Rubymar cargo ship sustained “catastrophic damages” and was rendered immobile after being targeted in a military operation. Saree emphasized that the crew was safely evacuated during the attack, although the vessel now faces the risk of sinking in the Gulf of Aden.
The Rubymar, confirmed to be a UK-registered, Belize-flagged, and Lebanese-operated cargo ship by British maritime security firm Ambrey, came under attack late on Sunday. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) corroborated the incident, reporting that the vessel was located approximately 35 nautical miles south of al-Makha (Mocha) in Yemen. Thankfully, all crew members were reported safe after abandoning the vessel, with military authorities providing assistance on the scene.
Additionally, a US-owned and Greek-flagged bulk carrier called for military assistance following a “missile attack,” as reported by Ambrey. This incident occurred approximately 100 nautical miles off Yemen’s Aden, with both Ambrey and UKMTO confirming the safety of the crew.
Simultaneously, the Houthi military claimed responsibility for downing a US-made MQ-9 Reaper attack drone over Yemen, accusing it of conducting “hostile missions” on behalf of the “Zionist entity.” While the group did not provide evidence, it’s worth noting that they have previously downed similar drones, which are valued at over $30 million each. The Pentagon acknowledged a similar incident in November when an MQ-9 was shot down over the Red Sea.
The Houthis, who have been in control of Yemen’s capital Sanaa and the northern regions since 2014, possess sophisticated surface-to-air missile systems capable of targeting advanced drones.
