Two projectiles hit Belize-flagged vessel in strike that if confirmed would be a propaganda victory
The Houthis have claimed one of their most significant strikes since they started launching missiles at ships in the Red Sea, after two projectiles hit a Belize-flagged cargo ship.
The Yemeni rebels claimed the ship was at risk of sinking, a significant propaganda victory for the Houthis if confirmed.
The security firm of the Rubymar, which was sailing from the United Arab Emirates to Bulgaria, said the crew had been evacuated safely but did not confirm a sinking.
The security company LSS-SAPU said the vessel was struck astern on Sunday, although there was nothing flammable onboard.
“We are unsure [of the ship’s condition]. There is nobody onboard now,” the spokesperson said. “The owners and managers are considering options for towage.”
The ship was struck 93 miles east of Aden and follows Houthi claims that they had shot down a US drone over the port of Hodeidah.
The Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, said in a televised address on Monday the Rubymar suffered “catastrophic damages and came to a complete halt” after being targeted in a military operation.
He added: “As a result of the extensive damage the ship suffered, it is now at risk of potential sinking in the Gulf of Aden. During the operation, we made sure that the ship’s crew exited safely.”
Separately on Monday, the security firm Ambrey said another vessel, a US-owned and Greek-flagged bulk carrier, had called for military assistance citing a “missile attack”.
