The US denounced that the Houthi rebels launched three anti-ship missiles against a Panama-flagged oil tanker in the Red Sea

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Houthi Rebels Launch Ballistic Missiles Causing Minor Damage to Oil Tanker in Red Sea

Ballistic missiles fired by Yemen’s Houthi rebels have caused “minor damage” to a Panama-flagged oil tanker in the Red Sea, officials confirm. The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) denounced the launch of three anti-ship missiles by the Houthi rebels against targets in the waters of the Red Sea.

The US Army stated that on April 26, Iran-backed Houthi terrorists launched three anti-ship ballistic missiles from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen towards the MV MAISHA and MV Andromeda Star, ships flying the flags of Antigua/Barbuda and Panama, respectively. The attack resulted in minor damage to the vessel Andromeda Star, with no injuries reported among US, coalition, or commercial ships.

The Houthi rebels have confirmed the attack through their unofficial SABA news agency, describing it as a retaliation against US and British aggression. They also claimed to have shot down an American MQ9 unmanned aerial vehicle in Saada province while carrying out hostile missions.

The recent uptick in Houthi assaults comes amid a period of relative calm following their campaign against Israel amidst the conflict in the Gaza Strip. The rebels have launched attacks on shipping vessels, including the Andromeda Star and Maisha, off the coast of Mocha, Yemen.

While rebel operations have decreased in recent weeks due to increased air campaigns and reduced shipping traffic, the Houthis have continued their attacks, targeting vessels involved in trade linked to Russia and the US. They have vowed to continue their assaults until the end of the conflict in Gaza.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with US authorities speculating that the rebels may be running out of weapons due to ongoing offensive measures. Despite the attacks, most targeted ships have little or no direct connection to the conflict, raising concerns about the escalating tensions in the region.

(With information from Europa Press and AP)