In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the Houthi rebels in Yemen have claimed responsibility for a drone strike on a ship in the Arabian Sea. Brigadier General Yahya Saree, the Houthi spokesperson, confirmed the attack on Saturday, stating that the vessel, named “MEGALOPOLIS,” was targeted for violating their “entry ban.” This ban was imposed on October 7, 2023, the same day Hamas launched its surprise attack on southern Israel, triggering the ongoing war in Gaza. The Houthis claim the ship was heading to an Israeli port.
The Houthi group, backed by Iran, has been increasingly aggressive in targeting vessels in the Red Sea. Openly supporting Hamas, the Houthis have vowed to target any vessel traveling to or from Israel in the region. However, the group has been known to attack ships with no connection to Israel. This recent spate of attacks, including the Saturday drone strike, has significantly heightened anxieties within the maritime community.
In his public statement, Saree hailed the attack as a victory for the Palestinian and Lebanese people. He further emphasized that the recent killing of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar would only strengthen the Iran-led “Axis of Resistance” against Israel. The Houthi spokesperson also highlighted the ongoing use of missiles and drones against Israel, reiterating that these attacks will continue until the Israeli military operations in Gaza and Lebanon cease.
The Houthi attack comes just hours after Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, leader of the Yemeni Ansar Allah movement, expressed condolences for Sinwar’s death and declared that his “martyrdom would not weaken the resistance.” This sentiment underlines the group’s unwavering commitment to supporting Hamas and its fight against Israel.
While Houthi attacks in the region had seen a decline, the group has recently launched a new wave of missile attacks. Earlier this month, the rebel group launched an explosive-laden drone that crashed into one ship in the Red Sea and exploded against another. The use of drone boats by the Houthis against ships operating in the region has become increasingly prevalent.
The ongoing threats from the Houthis have led to a significant drop in shipping activities in the region. This disruption is causing ripple effects across the global economy, impacting trade and potentially leading to rising prices for goods and services.
The Houthi attack on the “MEGALOPOLIS” serves as a stark reminder of the volatile situation in the Middle East and the potential for further escalation. The conflict between Israel and Hamas, coupled with the Houthi’s aggressive actions, casts a shadow over the region and raises concerns about the broader implications for global security and economic stability.