Militants identify as Houthis successfully perform another sinking of a vessel in the Red Sea.
Following a skirmish by the Huthi Militia in the Red Sea, a merchant vessel succumbed to the waves. As per reports by the British Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), responsible for maritime safety, the vessel is presumed to have sunk. Authorities have allegedly discovered remnants and oil spills at the last known position of the ship.
The vessel was ambushed a week ago in the Red Sea, on its voyage away from Yemen's coast. According to UKMTO, the ship took two hits. The crew was reportedly rescued. The Huthi Militia, as per the US Central Command, allegedly assaulted the Liberian-flagged freighter known as "Tutor" a week prior. The ship supposedly suffered significant damage to its engine room, which was further flooded.
The ship is said to be owned by a Greek entrepreneur. The route via the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea is a crucial trade artery worldwide. In recent times, the Huthi have reportedly mounted several attacks on civilian cargo vessels in this region.
The Militia is believed to stand in solidarity with Hamas in Gaza. The US, UK, and their allies have therefore repeatedly targeted Huthi targets in Yemen. The Militia is rumored to have ties with Iran and, according to US governmental evaluations, is also reportedly funded by Tehran.
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- The Red Sea has become a hotspot for Sanaa-aligned Huthi militants, who have been increasing their attacks on shipping lanes, resulting in multiple shipwrecks.
- The Middle East conflict has also involved Hamas, who are reportedly supporting the Huthi Militia in Yemen, making the Red Sea a dangerous area for merchant vessels.
- Israel warships patrolling the Red Sea have been thought to be a possible response to the risk posed by the Huthi Militia, as they aim to protect international shipping lanes from attacks.
- The recent sinking of the Liberian-flagged freighter "Tutor" in the Red Sea is evidence of the escalating tensions in the region and the complex web of conflicts affecting Yemen, the Middle East, and global shipping.