According to UKMTO, on Wednesday, three projectiles hit a merchant vessel off Yemen’s Hodeida port city controlled by rebels, hindering the ship’s navigation. Two small boats were first involved in shooting at the ship; one of them had 3-5 individuals on board while the other contained around ten people according to United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations.
The agency reported that “the ship was then struck by two unidentified projectiles before being hit by a third.”
There were no casualties reported but “the vessel reports being not under command” (unable to manoeuvre), an indication that it might be damaged and therefore restricted in its movement.
Another report said that Ambrey maritime security company confirmed an incident off Hodeida without any further details about it.
There have been no claims made yet for the attack though this follows nine months of Iran-backed Huthi rebels campaign against Red Sea and Gulf of Aden international shipping in support of Gaza.
Their rocket and drone attacks have greatly impacted naval movements through the Red Sea which accounts for as much as 12 percent of global trade volumes.
Since January, both United States and Britain have retaliated with missile strikes on Yemeni Houthi targets although such actions have been ineffective.
