According to international news sources, Houthis claim that the Belize-flagged cargo ship they attacked on February 18, is at risk of sinking.
The Houthis launched two missiles at the Belize-flagged cargo ship, Rubymar, in the Gulf of Aden on Sunday. The vessel was en route from the United Arab Emirates to Bulgaria. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) received the report, confirming an explosion causing damage.
Fortunately, all crew members, having abandoned the vessel, were reported safe after the Houthi’s attack.
In addition to posing a significant security threat to seafarers and vessels transiting the area, the attacks by Houthis have impacted global supply chains. Increasingly, operators choose to avoid transiting the Red Sea to ensure the security of their vessels and crews.
To ensure the safety of the crew and mitigate the impact of the situation, international organizations and governments are actively seeking solutions on multiple fronts.
For instance, the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) has officially launched Operation Aspides, a new maritime mission aimed at addressing the instability in the Red Sea.
This initiative comes in response to the escalating disruption of shipping in the region and will complement the ongoing U.S.-led Operation Prosperity Guardian.