Houthi forces used five small boats to attack a commercial oil tanker in the waters off Yemen on Monday, according to maritime security reports and Houthi statements.
The incident occurred in the southern Red Sea or Gulf of Aden near Houthi-controlled coastal areas. The Houthis claimed responsibility, describing the operation as part of their ongoing campaign against vessels linked to Israel, the United States, or their allies.
Details (as of now):
- Five small fast-attack boats were involved in the assault.
- The target was an oil tanker (specific name and flag not yet confirmed in all reports).
- The Houthis have increasingly used swarming tactics with small boats, drones, and missiles in the Red Sea.
- No immediate confirmation of damage, casualties, or hijacking attempt, but such attacks often involve gunfire, RPGs, or boarding attempts.
This fits the pattern of Houthi operations that have disrupted global shipping since late 2023, leading to rerouting of vessels, higher insurance costs, and international naval responses (including U.S. and UK strikes on Houthi targets).
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and other monitoring groups are tracking the situation.
