The leader of Yemen's Houthi group, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, announced that the group will monitor the implementation of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
He warned that any breach of the deal would result in continued attacks on merchant vessels in the Red Sea.
Since November 2023, the Iran-aligned Houthis have conducted over 100 attacks on ships, sinking two vessels, seizing another, and killing at least four seafarers. These attacks have significantly disrupted global trade, forcing ships to reroute, which has led to longer delivery times for goods.
Strategic Importance of the Region
The Houthis have targeted the southern Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Bab al-Mandab strait, a critical chokepoint connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean. This waterway is vital for exports from the Gulf and Asia heading to Western markets via the Suez Canal.
Details of Major Houthi Attacks
- November 2023: Houthi commandos seized the Bahamas-flagged car carrier Galaxy Leader in international waters, holding its 25 crew members captive.
- January 2024: The Greek-owned vessel Zografia, travelling empty from Vietnam to Israel, was struck near Yemen’s Saleef port, leaving a large hole below its waterline.
- February 2024: The British-owned Rubymar was hit by missiles, making it the first ship sunk by the Houthis. It sank in March 2024.
- March 2024: A Houthi missile attack on the Greek-owned ship True Confidence killed three seafarers and set the vessel ablaze off Yemen's port of Aden.
- June 2024: The Greek-owned coal carrier Tutor was attacked near Hodeidah by missiles and an explosive-laden drone. It sank days later, with one crew member missing and others evacuated. Salvagers are still attempting to recover the wreckage.
- August 2024: The Greek-registered tanker Sounion, carrying 150,000 metric tons of crude oil, was struck by missiles and drones. The resulting fire raised fears of an environmental disaster, though the cargo was eventually removed after months of efforts.
The ongoing attacks underscore the severe risks posed to international shipping and the global economy in one of the world's most strategic maritime corridors.