Maritime authorities are on high alert following reports of an attack on a cargo vessel in the Red Sea, off the coast of Yemen. According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the incident occurred on Sunday, approximately 30 nautical miles southwest of the city of Hodeidah. The cargo ship issued a distress signal, reporting that it was under attack by unknown armed individuals.
Red Sea: Small skiff approached the cargo ship and opened fire
A small skiff approached the cargo vessel and opened fire, forcing the ship’s armed security guards to return fire before the skiff retreated to a larger vessel approximately 2 nautical miles (3.7 kilometers) away, which had its Automatic Identification System (AIS) disabled, according to UKMTO.
UKMTO WARNING 079-26 – ATTACK
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The cargo ship and crew reported safe
The cargo ship and its crew have been reported safe, the British maritime agency announced, adding that authorities are conducting an investigation. The agency also issued an urgent warning to all vessels operating in the area, urging them to transit with heightened vigilance and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.
This latest incident further deepens concerns over navigational safety in the Red Sea, a strategically vital corridor for global trade that continues to remain at the center of heightened risks and security incidents.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. Yemen’s Houthi rebels have threatened to resume attacks on shipping vessels, though they have not carried out any strikes so far.
