Houthi Missiles Strike Singaporean Cargo Vessel in Gulf of Aden

A Singaporean-flagged cargo vessel was struck by Yemen's Houthi missiles in the Gulf of Aden, forcing it to return to its last port. The Houthi militants, aligning with Iran, launched ballistic missiles and drones, causing global trade disruptions. All crew members are reported safe.

In a significant escalation of tensions in the Gulf of Aden, a Singaporean-flagged cargo vessel was struck by Yemen's Houthi missiles on Friday. The vessel, which was navigating northeast along the Gulf, was forced to return to its last port of call to assess the damage.

The Iran-aligned Houthi militants launched ballistic missiles and drones, hitting the vessel 83 nautical miles southeast of Yemen's port city of Aden. Yahya Sarea, the Houthi military spokesperson, confirmed the attack in a televised speech. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the vessel was hit on two separate occasions, though the extent of the damage remains unclear.

Despite the assault, the ship was deemed seaworthy, and all crew members were reported safe. A British security firm, Ambrey, noted that the ship attempted evasive maneuvers and turned off its automatic identification system shortly after the attack. This incident is part of a broader series of Houthi strikes targeting shipping lanes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, linked to the group's show of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)