American ship targeted by Houthis in another successful attack

According to Brigadier General Yahya Saree, the spokesperson for the Houthi militants in Yemen, they have conducted a missile strike on the US-owned tanker Chem Ranger in the Gulf of Aden. This attack comes shortly after a series of US-led airstrikes on Yemen.

Saree claimed that the attack resulted in “direct hits” and warned that retaliation to American and British attacks is inevitable.

The US Central Command has confirmed the incident but stated that there were no injuries or damage to the vessel.

The Houthi militants have been carrying out numerous drone and missile attacks in the region, with the aim of lifting the blockade of Gaza and ending the killing of Palestinians.

Ships navigating through the Red Sea are facing increased risks, which has compelled major freight companies to avoid using the Suez Canal.

As a result, insurance costs have skyrocketed. Instead of taking the Suez route, which is the fastest way for cargo to travel from Asia to Europe, many vessels are now opting to go around the Cape of Good Hope.

However, this alternative route comes with higher expenses in terms of fuel, maintenance, and wages. In response to these challenges, the United States took the lead in conducting airstrikes on Yemen as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian.

This operation is an international maritime coalition aimed at safeguarding commercial shipping. While the US National Security Council spokesperson, John Kirby, claimed that the airstrikes had a positive impact, a report from the New York Times later revealed that the majority of Houthi military assets remained operational.

Despite this, US President Joe Biden has acknowledged that the strikes have not halted the activities of the Houthis and has stated that the bombing will continue.