Four crew members were killed in an attack by Iran-backed Houthis on a small cargo ship in the Bab el-Mandeb strait, according to Yemen’s transport ministry. The incident occurred on Tuesday, August 11, while the Egyptian-owned Tihamah was at anchor northeast of Perim Island, Yemen. Three coastguard personnel were also injured during rescue efforts.
Ambrey, a British maritime security group, reported that the ship was hit by an unknown projectile. UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) received information about the attack, but no further details on the nature of the weapon used have been provided as of yet. The Ministry of Transport of Yemen referred to the vessel as a Yemeni ship, while Iranian news agency Mehr reported it was associated with Saudi Arabia.
In separate incidents, a U.S. missile strike is suspected to have targeted a container ship off Pakistan in the Gulf of Oman. The Panama-flagged Vela Nova suffered damage after an attack believed to be carried out by a U.S. helicopter firing a Hellfire missile. This follows a series of attacks since April on vessels linked to Iran in the region.
The incidents come amid increased tensions and naval activities in the Bab el-Mandeb strait, with the Houthi group declaring a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia as part of their broader conflict. The U.S. has also intensified its blockade of Iran-linked shipping following recent events.
Context for Ship Operators
The ongoing attacks and missile strikes underscore the heightened security risks in key waterways such as the Bab el-Mandeb strait, which is crucial for global trade routes connecting Asia to Europe. Shipping companies are advised to maintain updated situational awareness through reliable maritime security services and adhere to enhanced safety measures when transiting these areas.