Armed Houthi Attack Targets Bulk Carrier Off Yemen

On Sunday, a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier was attacked in the southern Red Sea, potentially signaling that Yemen’s Houthi forces are resuming their Red Sea campaign. The incident has renewed concern among global carriers, many of whom continue to reroute vessels to avoid the region.

The bulk carrier Magic Seas (IMO: 9736169) was sailing approximately 51 nautical miles southwest of Hodeidah (LOCODE: YEHOD) when it was approached by several small craft carrying armed personnel. The attackers were equipped with rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and small arms. The security team onboard the Magic Seas responded with return fire. One RPG reportedly struck the vessel’s bridge, according to Vanguard, a maritime risk consultancy.

Use of Bomb Boats

EOS Risk Group reported that the attack involved four unmanned bomb boats. Two were destroyed before impact, while two reportedly reached the vessel. EOS’ Martin Kelly further stated that there may have also been missile launches involved, although this remains unconfirmed.

By 1500 UTC, the ships’s cargo was reportedly on fire, and the Magic Seas was taking on water. At approximately 1545 UTC, the crew made the decision to abandon ship. By 1900 UTC, UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that the crew had been safely rescued by a nearby merchant vessel.

“(The) scale of the attack with multiple weapons types was intended to sink the ship,” said Martin Kelly of EOS Risk Group.

Threatens Vessels Linked to Israeli Trade

The Magic Seas is managed by Greek firm Allseas Marine, which reportedly has additional vessels that have previously called at ports in Israel. The Houthis has issued warnings that they are willing to attack the assets of shipowners who engage in business with Israeli shippers.

The militant group’s campaign targeting maritime vessels had largely subsided following a series of U.S. airstrikes earlier this year, after which Houthi leaders agreed to stop attacks on American ships. However, their threats against Israeli-linked shipping have remained in place.