Houthis sink cargo ship in Red Sea bound for Israel, second attack in a week

In a second attack this week by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, the Liberian-flagged cargo ship Eternity C was targeted and sunk. The vessel was reportedly en route to Israel.

According to foreign media reports, at least three crew members were killed in the attack, while 15 others remain missing. The European Union naval force confirmed that six crew members were safely evacuated.

The assault was reportedly carried out using a pilot boat and guided missiles. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was an act of solidarity with the Palestinian people and an attempt to pressure Israel to halt its military actions in Gaza.

A video released by the Houthi group showed scenes of the assault, including the sound of explosions and the evacuation of the crew. The group claimed they provided medical assistance to some individuals and transported them to a safe location.

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However, the US Mission to Yemen accused the Houthis of kidnapping several surviving crew members and has called for their immediate and unconditional release.

According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and British security firm Ambrey, the Eternity Sea was severely damaged and sank off the coast of Hodeidah, a Yemeni port city under Houthi control.

This was the second similar incident within a week. Earlier, the Houthis targeted another Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated cargo ship, Magic Seas, using drones and missiles.

That vessel also sank after the attack. All 22 crew members on board were rescued by a nearby merchant ship.

A separate video released by the Houthis showed armed men boarding the Magic Seas moments before a powerful explosion occurred, leading to the ship’s destruction and eventual sinking.