TAMPA, Fla. – On June 12, Iranian-backed Houthi forces launched two separate attacks on bulk cargo carriers in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, heightening fears over regional stability and the safety of international maritime operations.
The first incident involved the M/V Tutor, a Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned bulk cargo vessel. The ship was struck by an uncrewed surface vessel (USV), resulting in severe flooding and significant damage to the engine room. The crew abandoned the ship and were subsequently rescued by the USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) along with partner forces. Tragically, one civilian mariner remains missing following the attack. The M/V Tutor is currently taking on water and remains adrift in the Red Sea.
In a subsequent attack, the M/V Verbena, a Palauan-flagged, Ukrainian-owned, and Polish-operated bulk cargo carrier, was hit by two missile strikes. The resulting fires caused severe injuries to one crew member, who was medically evacuated. Despite the damage, the crew managed to extinguish the fires and have resumed their voyage through the Gulf of Aden.
These aggressive actions by the Houthis have been widely condemned for their recklessness and the threat they pose to regional stability. The Houthis have claimed their actions are in support of Palestinians in Gaza, yet their attacks have endangered the lives of international mariners with no connection to the conflict. This ongoing threat to international shipping not only endangers lives but also complicates the delivery of much-needed aid to both Yemen and Gaza.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and its partners have vowed to hold the Houthis accountable and to take steps to degrade their military capabilities. “This continued malign behavior by the Houthis is unacceptable,” a CENTCOM spokesperson stated. “We are committed to working with our partners to ensure the safety of maritime operations in the region and to respond decisively to any threats.”
The attacks have further strained the already volatile situation in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, regions critical to global maritime trade. The international community has expressed deep concern over the Houthis’ actions and the broader implications for regional security.
As the situation develops, the priority remains on ensuring the safety of maritime crews and maintaining the flow of international commerce. Efforts to stabilize the region and deter further aggression are ongoing, with CENTCOM and allied forces closely monitoring the situation and prepared to take necessary measures to protect maritime operations.–News Desk