A Marshall Islands-flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker encountered two explosions near Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah while navigating the Red Sea, marking the third attack on merchant vessels within a span of 48 hours, according to British security firm Ambrey. The tanker, previously under U.S. ownership, reported the incidents as it traversed the region, raising concerns about maritime security in the area. Another merchant vessel in the vicinity also reported an explosion off its starboard beam, as confirmed by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKTMO). The ongoing attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, attributed to Iran-aligned Houthi militants in Yemen, have targeted international commercial shipping since mid-November, purportedly in support of Palestinians amid conflicts in Gaza. These incidents have disrupted global shipping routes, compelling vessels to take longer and costlier detours around the southern tip of Africa to ensure safe passage. While no damage or injuries were reported in the recent attacks, the United States and Britain have conducted retaliatory strikes against Houthi targets in response to the escalating maritime threats. In a separate development, the U.S. military confirmed Houthi missile launches towards the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea, prompting defensive actions to intercept and neutralize the incoming threats in Yemen-controlled territories.
Ambrey Reports Fuel Tanker Attack in Red Sea with Two Explosions