Houthis Attack Ship in Red Sea Amid Israeli Incursion into Lebanon
A ship in the Red Sea was targeted in a suspected attack by Yemen-based Houthis. This incident occurred as the Israeli Army began a ‘targeted and limited’ incursion into Lebanon following the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah by Israeli airstrikes.
Details of the Incident
The United Kingdom’s maritime security agency reported the incident, which took place 64 nautical miles northwest of the port of Al Hudayah in Yemen. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) advised vessels to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity. The ship’s captain reported four splashes near the vessel, but all crew members are safe, and the ship is proceeding to its next port of call.
Background on Houthi Attacks
Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been attacking and hijacking ships in the region for months, disrupting global trade and maritime operations. In August, the UKMTO issued an alert following a missile attack on a vessel off the coast of Yemen. The Houthis have also claimed attacks on Israeli cities and US Navy warships.
Israeli Military Actions
On September 30, Israel launched limited raids into southern Lebanon against Hezbollah forces. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that a ‘targeted and limited’ incursion began, focusing on Hezbollah targets and infrastructure in Lebanese villages along the border. Israel’s actions have intensified following the deaths of key militant leaders, including Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah’s Faud Shukr.
Impact on Global Trade
The Houthi attacks have forced shipping firms to seek alternative routes, impacting approximately 12% of global trade that traverses the Red Sea. The US Maritime Administration reported over 50 Houthi attacks on shipping, resulting in casualties, vessel seizures, and disruptions to trade routes.
Doubts Revealed
Houthis -: Houthis are a group of people from Yemen who are involved in a conflict in their country. They sometimes attack ships and other targets.
Red Sea -: The Red Sea is a large body of water between Africa and Asia. It’s important for ships that carry goods around the world.
Israeli Incursion -: An incursion means entering another country, usually with military force. Here, it means Israeli soldiers went into Lebanon.
Lebanon -: Lebanon is a country in the Middle East, near Israel. It has been involved in conflicts with Israel.
Hezbollah -: Hezbollah is a group in Lebanon that has its own army. They often fight with Israel.
Hassan Nasrallah -: Hassan Nasrallah is the leader of Hezbollah. He is an important figure in Lebanon.
UK maritime agency -: This is a group from the United Kingdom that looks after ships and safety at sea.
Al Hudayah -: Al Hudayah is a port city in Yemen. It’s near the Red Sea and important for shipping.
Global trade -: Global trade means buying and selling goods between different countries. Ships are very important for this.
Hamas -: Hamas is a group in Palestine that often fights with Israel. They have their own leaders and army.
Ismail Haniyeh -: Ismail Haniyeh is a leader of Hamas. He is an important figure in Palestine.
Faud Shukr -: Faud Shukr is a leader in Hezbollah. He is involved in the group’s military actions.