Pratik Bijlani –
Yemen’s Houthi armed organisation has claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile strike on the Liberian-flagged container ship MV Groton in the Gulf of Aden. This is the first attack on shipping by the Houthis since an Israeli bombardment on the port city of Hodeidah on July 20. Yahya Saree, the Houthi military spokesperson, acknowledged the strike in a televised statement, emphasising the group’s persistent threat in the region.
The missile hit occurred about 225 kilometres southeast of Aden, a site notorious for frequent Houthi strikes. Despite the missile impact, the vessel was reported to have no flames, water entry, or oil leakage. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre and private security firm Ambrey confirmed the incident, noting that the ship involved was the MV Groton, which had sailed from Fujairah in the UAE on its way to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The Houthis have launched more than 70 strikes on vessels, killing four sailors, seizing one, and sinking two more. Their campaign, which began in November, has been marked by brief pauses and resurgences, affected by regional geopolitical developments. The recent incident came after the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, emphasising the potential for larger regional hostilities.
Although the Houthis claim their attacks are directed at ships affiliated to Israel, the United States, or the United Kingdom, many of the vessels targeted have no clear relation to the Israel-Hamas war. This includes ships destined for Iran, demonstrating the broader implications of their maritime aggression.
The resurgence of Houthi strikes highlights the ongoing threat to shipping routes in the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea, which are critical arteries for international maritime trade. The worldwide marine community continues to constantly watch the situation, attempting to alleviate the hazards posed by these persistent threats.
Marex Media