Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched two cruise missiles hitting a bulk cargo carrier in the Gulf of Aden, causing serious injuries to one crew member, U.S. Central Command said. This incident, occurring on Thursday, marks their second strike on a merchant ship in as many days. The group declared their intention to persist with these actions until the conflict in Gaza ceases.
According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), three missiles struck the Verbena on Thursday, resulting in a fire and significant damage to the vessel. The U.S. Central Command reported that while the crew battled the blaze, a U.S. Navy aircraft from the Philippine Sea conducted a medical evacuation of the injured mariner to a nearby partnership for urgent medical treatment.
Earlier that day, the Iran-backed group claimed responsibility for multiple attacks within a 24-hour period, including the strike on the Verbena. They cited these actions as retaliation for perceived injustices against their people in Gaza and as a response to alleged American and British aggression towards their nation.
The UKMTO had earlier reported an attack causing fire on a vessel, while Ambrey, a private security firm, relayed a distress call from a merchant ship reporting missile impact.
The Houthi insurgency in the Red Sea area has significantly disrupted global maritime trade, leading to delays and increased costs throughout international supply chains. Their activities have included sinking one ship, capturing another, and causing fatalities among seafarers in separate incidents.
