Houthi Attack on Ship in Bab el-Mandeb Strait

— Yemen's Houthi rebels have reportedly launched four suspected attacks on a Liberian-flagged oil tanker in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial maritime route connecting the Gulf of Aden to the Red Sea. The assaults included a rocket-propelled grenade explosion near the vessel and a missile strike that occurred shortly after. Private security personnel aboard the tanker successfully intercepted and destroyed a bomb-laden drone boat during the incidents, which have not yet been claimed by the Houthis. These attacks are part of a broader campaign by the Houthis, who have targeted over 70 vessels since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. The rebels assert that their operations are aimed at ships associated with Israel, the United States, or the United Kingdom, as they seek to pressure these nations to end their involvement in the ongoing war. The Houthis have previously claimed responsibility for various missile and drone strikes, including an attack on Israel that resulted in casualties. The U.S. military has responded to the escalating threats by destroying two Houthi anti-ship cruise missiles and a ground control station in the Red Sea. Central Command emphasized its commitment to countering threats posed by Iranian-backed groups in the region. The situation remains tense as the Houthis continue their campaign, which has already resulted in the deaths of four sailors and the sinking of two vessels since the conflict's escalation in October.