Two ships reported explosions near Yemen’s coast on Tuesday, though no injuries or damage were observed, according to maritime security agencies.
The situation in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden has become increasingly dangerous for ships due to the presence of Houthi rebels, who control several areas, including the capital, Sana’a. The rebels have initiated attacks to show solidarity with Palestinians in the war-torn Gaza region.
One of the ships, located 63 nautical miles southwest of the Houthi-controlled port city of Hodeidah, reported two explosions early Tuesday morning. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) stated that a suspicious small boat was seen operating nearby, with its lights flashing toward the ship.
The British Navy-operated agency further reported that an unmanned surface vessel (USV) attacked the ship but was successfully neutralized. “The ship and its crew are reported to be safe, and the vessel is continuing on its course to the port,” the agency stated.
Maritime security firm Ambrey noted that the ship’s profile matched that of a typical Houthi target. The Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC), operated by a Western naval coalition, identified the vessel as the Liberia-flagged crude oil tanker, Delta Atlantic.
Additionally, UKMTO reported that another ship, located 97 nautical miles northwest of Hodeidah, also reported “explosions around the vessel.”
JMIC identified this second ship as the Panama-flagged crude oil tanker, On Phoenix.
The situation underscores the ongoing risks in the region for maritime vessels due to the volatile security environment, particularly near Houthi-controlled areas.
