A vessel navigating through the Gulf of Aden near Yemen experienced two explosions in close proximity, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations on Tuesday. The British maritime security agency, UKMTO, assured that the vessel and its crew are safe as authorities launch an investigation into the incidents south of Yemen’s port city of Aden.
The Huthi rebels in Yemen, with support from Iran, have been carrying out numerous drone and missile strikes against ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden since last November. Their actions are said to be in solidarity with Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
In response to the escalating threats, the United States initiated a plan in December to safeguard Red Sea shipping from Huthi attacks. The attacks have caused major companies to reroute their ships, impacting the flow of global trade.
Both the US and Britain have conducted retaliatory strikes against Huthi targets in Yemen as a means to deter further aggression from the rebel group. The recent downing of a Huthi-launched drone over the Red Sea by US military forces demonstrates the ongoing tensions in the region.
The Huthis have also vowed to extend their operations, targeting shipping bound for Israel in the Mediterranean Sea. The actions of the rebel group continue to create uncertainty and pose risks to maritime activities in the region.
As the situation evolves, it is crucial for international maritime authorities to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of vessels and their crew navigating through the volatile waters off the coast of Yemen. The ongoing conflict underscores the challenges faced by commercial shipping companies operating in the region.