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Houthi rebels struck an oil tanker in the Red Sea on Saturday, with another ship also reporting minor damage from an attack. According to U.S. Central Command, the Houthis, backed by Iran, launched an anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) at approximately 1 a.m. on May 18 (Sanaa time).
The missile hit the Panamanian-flagged, Greek-owned oil tanker M/T Wind, which had recently docked in Russia and was en route to China. The impact caused flooding, resulting in a temporary loss of propulsion and steering. However, the crew managed to restore both, and no casualties were reported.
The tanker was about 10 nautical miles from Yemen at the time of the attack, as noted by British security firm Ambrey. The Houthis’ actions have been described as threatening regional stability and endangering maritime safety in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Since November, the Houthis have launched over 50 attacks on various vessels, including seizing one and sinking another, according to the U.S. Maritime Administration. The Houthis also claimed to have downed a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone. On the same day as the tanker attack, another ship, the Master, was hit but sustained only slight damage and continued its journey.
The U.S. Navy and the Houthis have been engaged in hostilities since November, with U.S. forces downing multiple Houthi missiles and drones. The USS Carney, involved in repelling these attacks, recently returned to Norfolk, Virginia, and will soon head to its home port of Mayport. Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, praised the crew’s efforts, highlighting their significant role in ensuring maritime safety and upholding international order.
