On Saturday, Iranian-backed Houthi rebels launched a missile attack on the Greek oil tanker M/T Wind in the Red Sea, according to a U.S. Central Command release.
The impact of the anti-ship ballistic missile “caused flooding which resulted in the loss of propulsion and steering,” explained CENTCOM. “A coalition vessel immediately responded to the distress call by M/T Wind, but no assistance was needed. The crew of M/T Wind was able to restore propulsion and steering, and no casualties were reported. M/T Wind resumed its course under its own power.”
This strike adds to a series of Houthi attacks that began in late 2023, following the onset of the Israel-Hamas war. Israel started bombarding Gaza after the terrorist group’s deadly attack on October 7, prompting the Houthis to target ships in the Red Sea.
Houthi activity in the Red Sea has decreased in frequency in recent weeks, but in early 2024, the rebel group had compelled ship operators to take longer, more expensive routes to avoid the area.
“This continued malign and reckless behavior by the Iranian-backed Houthis threatens regional stability and endangers the lives of mariners across the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden,” the release stated.
