Container Ship Witnesses 3 Massive Explosions Southwest Of Yemen’s Mocha

Three explosions were observed close to Mocha in Yemen by a container ship flying the flag of Malta, as reported by the British maritime security company Ambrey. The event happened about 15 miles southwest of Mocha when the ship’s captain used the VHF radio to communicate with a coalition cruiser. According to Ambrey, the ship was targeted by three missiles fired from the Taiz Governorate in Yemen.

Another nearby vessel reported seeing a tiny boat, about 50 meters long and equipped with two lights, within a mile of the explosion site shortly after the explosions. Although the targeted vessel was not considered to be Israel-affiliated, other ships in the operator’s fleet had regular ties with Israel, which might make them vulnerable to assaults, according to maritime security firm Ambrey.

The Houthi militants, who are supported by Iran and in control of a significant portion of Yemen, including the capital, Sanaa, have escalated their attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea. In response, several maritime companies have halted operations along the Red Sea, choosing instead to take longer routes around Africa to minimise the increased hazards.

In another instance, Houthi fighters attacked a container ship flying the Malta flag that France owned. Three missiles targeted the ship from Yemen, but it could avoid the damage that occurred. Ambrey Analytics, the marine security company managing the investigation, held the targeted vessel’s identity.

These occurrences come after recent Houthi attacks on American Navy helicopters responding to a distress call from a cargo ship, which led to the sinking of a Houthi raiding vessel and the deaths of ten combatants. The events are still being investigated, and shipping companies are reviewing their routes and backup plans in light of the changing circumstances.

Reference: Reuters

Container Ship Witnesses 3 Massive Explosions Southwest Of Yemen’s Mocha appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News