IRAN-BACKED HOUTHIS TARGET 2 SHIPS IN RED SEA, INDIAN OCEAN

Drone Attack on Merchant Ship: A drone attack damaged a merchant ship in the Red Sea near Yemen on Sunday, as reported by two maritime security agencies.

Houthi Rebel Involvement: The Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the naval attacks in the Red Sea, a vital trade route.

Ongoing Attacks: Vessels in and around the Red Sea have faced repeated attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels for months, allegedly in support of Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas war.

Location of Attack: The latest attack occurred about 65 nautical miles (120 kilometers) west of the Yemeni port city of Hodeida, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

Details of the Attack: The master of the merchant vessel reported being hit by an uncrewed aerial system (UAS), resulting in damage to the vessel. The vessel is proceeding to its next port of call with no initial casualties reported.

Crew Injuries: The vessel reported being hit while transiting the Red Sea, with several crew members sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.

Second Vessel Incident: Later on Sunday, UKMTO reported a distress call from a second vessel off Yemen's southeastern coast, which suffered uncontrollable flooding, forcing the crew to abandon ship and be rescued by another vessel.

Houthi Military Statement: One in the Red Sea and the other in the Indian Ocean, using UAS and cruise missiles. Additionally, the United States Central Command destroyed three nautical drones belonging to the Houthis, which were deemed an imminent threat to US, coalition forces, and merchant vessels in the region.