RED SEA: A deadly escalation in Red Sea hostilities has left at least four crew members dead and 15 others missing after Yemen’s Houthi rebels attacked and sank a Liberian-flagged cargo ship, according to maritime and naval sources.
The vessel, Eternity C, which was Greek-owned, was reportedly targeted on Monday using a combination of missiles and an unmanned boat, in an operation the Houthis claim was carried out in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
On Wednesday, the European Union naval force confirmed the rescue of six crew members, while recovery efforts for the remaining crew continue under perilous conditions.
“Targeted for Gaza”: Houthis Claim Attack Aimed at Israel
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the cargo ship was en route to Israel and defended the strike as part of the group’s ongoing campaign to pressure Tel Aviv over its military operations in Gaza.
The group released a propaganda video showing footage of the attack, including warnings to the crew to evacuate, followed by explosions that led to the ship’s sinking.
The United States Mission in Yemen accused the Houthis of kidnapping some of the surviving crew members, demanding their “immediate and unconditional release.”
Red Sea Flashpoint Reignites After Months of Calm
The incident marks a dangerous uptick in Houthi maritime aggression, following several months of relative quiet in the Red Sea. Analysts warn the attack could signal a renewed phase in the Houthis’ naval campaign, which has previously disrupted international shipping lanes.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre (UKMTO), part of the British military, reported that the Eternity C suffered “significant damage” and lost propulsion prior to sinking.
Security firm Ambrey later confirmed the vessel had gone down near Yemen’s Hodeidah port, an area under Houthi control.
Global Shipping at Risk
The attack on Eternity C highlights the ongoing vulnerability of commercial shipping in one of the world’s most strategically vital waterways. The Red Sea remains a critical route for international trade, and renewed instability could have far-reaching economic and security implications.
As search and rescue operations continue, international pressure is mounting for de-escalation — but with regional tensions still running high, maritime operators are once again on high alert.
