What to Know:
Iran-backed Houthi forces have confirmed that they targeted two more commercial vessels in the Red Sea, M/V Swan Atlantic and MSC Clara.
The Statement:
In a statement, the Houthis announced that “With the help of God Almighty, the naval forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a qualitative military operation against two ships linked to the Zionist entity. The first was the “Swan Atlantic” ship, loaded with oil, and the other was the “MSC Clara” ship, carrying containers.”
“They were targeted by two sea drones. The process of targeting the two ships came after their crews refused to respond to calls from the Yemeni naval forces.”
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“The Yemeni Armed Forces reiterate their reassurance to all ships heading to all ports around the world, except for Israeli ports, that no harm will befall them and that they must keep the dating device open,” the statement added.
Like in previous statements and warnings, the Houthis stated that “The Yemeni Armed Forces also reiterate that they will not hesitate to target any ship that violates what was stated in its previous statements. The Yemeni Armed Forces confirm that they continue to prevent all ships heading to Israeli ports of any nationality from navigating the Arab and Red Seas until they bring in the food and medicine that our steadfast brothers in the Gaza Strip need.”
Response:
It has been reported that the United States Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Carney responded to distress signals from the M/V Swan Atlantic to render assistance to the vessel. So far there has not been a confirmation from USCENTCOM, however, a statement will likely be made soon.
Just in: Another attack on a commercial ship in the Red Sea, US military official confirms.
M/V Swan Atlantic attacked by ‘multiple projectiles’ approx. 9 a.m. Sanaa time in southern Red Sea. USS Carney responded to Swan Atlantic’s distress call.
— Jared Szuba (@JM_Szuba) December 18, 2023
These latest attacks come as major shipping companies suspend operations in the region, citing security concerns. As of Monday, shipping companies A.P. Moller–Maersk, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, Evergreen Shipping, and BP Shipping have all announced the suspension of transits through the Red Sea to the Suez Canal.