Merchant Vessel Under Attack in Yemeni Waters

The UKMTO reported an attack on a merchant vessel involving three small craft southwest of Yemen's Hodeidah city. The vessel endured collisions and gunfire but managed to proceed safely after implementing protection measures. The Houthi group has been intensifying such attacks since November, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported on Monday that a merchant vessel was attacked by three small craft 70 nautical miles southwest of Yemen's Hodeidah city.

The vessel was struck twice by an unmanned craft and fired upon by two manned ones, the UKMTO said. The vessel and crew remained safe after undertaking self-protection measures.

This incident is part of a series of drone and missile strikes by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November, actions they claim are in solidarity with Palestinians impacted by the conflict in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)