Overview and Background

A commercial vessel, the Liberian-flagged bulk carrier Magic Seas, was attacked in the Red Sea, approximately 94 kilometers (51 nautical miles) southwest of the Yemeni port of Hodeidah. The incident occurred on Sunday night, resulting in the crew abandoning ship as it took on water after being struck by gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades from small boats. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that the vessel was engaged by multiple armed vessels, leading to a fire onboard and subsequent distress signals from the crew. Authorities are currently investigating the attack.

Key Findings

• The Magic Seas was targeted by four unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) after initial attacks with small arms and grenades.
• Maritime security firm Ambrey reported that two of the USVs impacted the port side of the vessel, causing significant damage.
• Since November 2023, the Houthis have conducted over 100 attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, disrupting global shipping.
• The Houthis have claimed to target vessels linked to Israel as part of their campaign in solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
• Israel has conducted airstrikes against Houthi-held ports in Yemen in response to the attacks, escalating tensions in the region.

The attack on the Magic Seas marks a significant escalation in maritime security threats in the Red Sea, particularly as the Houthis have intensified their assaults on shipping since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023. The group has not formally claimed responsibility for this specific incident, but analysts suggest it aligns with their established target profile.

“The attack also proves once again that the Houthis are merely a front for an Iranian scheme using Yemen as a platform to undermine regional and global stability,” stated Moammar al-Eryani, Yemen’s information minister.

In response to these incidents, the U.S. Navy's Central Command has acknowledged awareness of the situation, although further details have not been disclosed. The ongoing conflict and maritime threats continue to pose challenges for international shipping and regional stability.