Yemen's Houthi rebels have executed a bold drone strike on a commercial vessel in the strategic waters of the Gulf of Aden, dramatically escalating their campaign against ships with perceived Israeli links.
The Iran-aligned group claimed responsibility for the precision attack on the MV Verbena, a bulk carrier flying a Palau flag. In a statement, a Houthi military spokesman declared the operation a success, asserting the ship was targeted for violating their ban on entering Israeli ports.
Details of the Attack Emerge
The assault occurred approximately 90 nautical miles southeast of Aden, a key port city. According to maritime security analysts, the Houthis deployed at least one unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which struck the vessel and caused a significant fire onboard.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre confirmed the incident, relaying the ship's distress call reporting damage sustained from multiple aerial drones. The crew reportedly managed to contain the resulting fire, but one seafarer was evacuated for medical treatment due to injuries sustained.
A Widening Regional Conflict
This attack represents a serious intensification of the Houthis' months-long campaign in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The rebels have repeatedly stated their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, vowing to continue until Israel ceases its offensive.
The strike on the Verbena is particularly notable as it is the first confirmed Houthi attack on a ship since the group sank the Rubymar in early March. This pattern of aggression has forced major shipping lines to reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, disrupting global trade and inflating costs.
International Response and Escalating Tensions
The United States military's Central Command (CENTCOM) has condemned the attack, highlighting the continued threat to regional maritime security. A US-led naval coalition has been operating in the area to provide protection for commercial shipping, frequently engaging and destroying Houthi drones and missiles before they can hit their targets.
This persistent threat has turned one of the world's most critical shipping lanes into a potential conflict zone, raising fears of a broader regional escalation and continued instability for global maritime commerce.
