Yemen's Houthis Escalate Red Sea Attacks, Targeting Iran-Bound Ship
In a significant escalation, Houthi rebels target a cargo ship bound for Iran, marking the first attack on an Iran-bound vessel amid ongoing tensions in the Red Sea.
- Houthi rebels fired missiles at the Marshall Islands-flagged, Greek-operated bulk carrier Star Iris, causing minor damage but no injuries.
- The attack on the Star Iris, bound for Iran from Brazil, signifies the first time Houthis have targeted an Iran-bound vessel, showcasing their independence from Tehran.
- U.S. and British forces respond with airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, aiming to protect Red Sea shipping lanes and deter further attacks.
- The ongoing Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping have prompted some companies to reroute around Africa, significantly impacting global trade.
- The escalation comes as peace efforts in Yemen stall, with a UN-backed peace plan now deemed 'no longer on the discussion table' due to increased hostilities.