On Tuesday, maritime security company Ambrey reported that a Greek-owned bulk carrier, the MV Laax, has been hit by three missiles and is taking on water in the Red Sea, approximately 85 kilometers southwest of the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah.
The Marshall Islands-flagged vessel, carrying a cargo of fertilizer, issued a distress call after sustaining damage to its cargo hold. Despite the attack, the Laax remains afloat and is continuing its voyage, reportedly bound for the United Arab Emirates.
The Houthi rebels, an Iran-backed group that controls much of southern and central Yemen, have refrained from claiming responsibility for the attack. Since November, the Houthis have been targeting international shipping in the Red Sea, citing support for Palestinians and opposition to Israel's war in Gaza.
Despite air strikes by the US and UK, the attacks against ships in the Red Sea, a crucial trade route, have not been deterred. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has urged an end to such attacks during a meeting in Beijing, pledging China's continued efforts to find a solution.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed receiving a report of an incident involving the Laax, stating that it was hit by missiles and reported water impacts near the vessel. While the crew remains unharmed, the ship is proceeding to its next port of call.
Majority of the Houthi attacks have failed to sink their targets, thanks to the intervention of US-led maritime forces in the region. However, in March, the MV Rubymar freighter was sunk following an attack. Its cargo poses potential ecological hazards to the fragile aquatic ecosystem of the Red Sea.
