- The Greek-owned supramax bulk carrier fell victim to Houthi missiles in the Gulf of Aden on February 15.
- While the Houthi military spokesman claimed the vessel to be British, it is owned by a Greek company.
- The attack was in response to perceived American-British aggression, with the Houthi Movement expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people.
- The bulk carrier sustained damage from a missile fragment but is sailing towards the Bab al-Mandeb strait and then to Suez, as reported by VesselsValue AIS tracking.
Incident Details and Response
The attack occurred 85 nautical miles east of Aden, according to the UK Marine Trade Organisation (UKMTO). The UK security firm, Ambrey, confirmed minor damages to the bulk carrier caused by a successful missile strike. While UK and US forces have attempted to thwart Houthi military capabilities in the region, the attacks in the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea persist.
US Central Command Intercept and Warning
Separately, on January 28, the US Central Command intercepted a vessel delivering arms to the Houthi Movement in the Arabian Sea. The US Coast Guard discovered over 200 packages containing various military components, emphasizing Iran’s violation of international law. General Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander, highlighted the impact on international shipping safety and the free flow of commerce.
The Enterprises Response
The Enterprises that owns the bulk carrier, based in Athens, Greece, declined to provide a statement regarding the recent attack on their bulk carrier. The company’s vessel, built in 2007, is now navigating its way to Suez, Egypt, to discharge its cargo. Despite efforts to curb Houthi activities, incidents like these continue to pose challenges to maritime security in the region.
