Liberian Vessel Catches Fire in the Red Sea
Sudan Events – Sumaya Sayed
A Liberian-flagged cargo ship caught fire in the Red Sea on Friday after being hit by a projectile launched from rebel-controlled Yemen, a US defense official and a private intelligence firm said.
The attack on the Al Jasrah further escalates a campaign by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, who have claimed responsibility for a series of missile assaults in recent days that just missed shipping in the Red Sea and its strategic Bab El-Mandeb Strait.
The attacks are a response to the Israel-Hamas war, though the links to the ships targeted in the rebel assaults has grown more tenuous — or non-existent — as the attacks continue.
The Houthis did not immediately claim responsibility for the assault on the Al Jasrah.
The US official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters. The private intelligence firm Ambrey also confirmed the attack took place.
“The projectile reportedly hit the port side of the vessel and one container fell overboard due to the impact,” Ambrey said. “The projectile caused a ‘fire on deck’ which was broadcast via” radio.
The British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, which monitors Mideast shipping lanes, also acknowledged the attack, warning vessels to exercise caution. The UKMTO said there had been no reported casualties from the fire.
The Al Jasrah is operated by German-based shipper Hapag Lloyd, which declined to immediately comment. It wasn’t clear if the attack involved a drone or a missile.
