Houthi Rebels Target Ships in Red Sea

Yemen's Houthi rebels have intensified their attacks on commercial shipping, claiming responsibility for a second missile strike on the Liberian-flagged vessel MV Groton in the Gulf of Aden on August 30, 2024. The UK's Maritime Trade Operations confirmed that two missiles exploded near the ship, which was previously targeted on August 3, but reported no injuries or damage. These assaults are part of a larger campaign by the Houthis, who have targeted over 80 vessels since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict, claiming their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians. Concurrently, attacks also occurred in the Red Sea, where two ships were struck near the Greek oil tanker Sounion, which remains ablaze and poses an ecological threat due to its cargo of 1 million barrels of oil. The U.S. Centcom has taken measures to protect navigation safety in the region, destroying Houthi UAVs in Yemen. The Houthis have vowed to continue their operations unless a ceasefire is established.