A cargo ship carrying timber from Malaysia to Italy came under attack in the Gulf of Aden, leaving one sailor severely injured and the vessel ablaze. The M/V Verbena, a Palauan-flagged, Ukrainian-owned, and Polish-operated bulk carrier, was struck by two cruise missiles launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The attack represents a significant escalation in the Houthis' maritime campaign, which has intensified since November 2023.
The assault on the M/V Verbena occurred while the ship was navigating one of the world’s most crucial maritime routes. The ship's crew reported substantial damage and fires on board as they struggled to contain the blaze. In a swift response, aircraft from the USS Philippine Sea medically evacuated the critically injured mariner to a nearby partner force ship for urgent medical treatment.
The Houthis, who have been engaged in a prolonged conflict with a Saudi-led coalition since ousting Yemen’s internationally-recognized government from Sanaa in 2014, have increasingly targeted vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. They claim these actions are in solidarity with the Palestinians amid Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza, which has resulted in over 37,000 deaths. The Iran-backed group asserts that their attacks are also a response to what they describe as American-British aggression against Yemen.
On the day of the attack on the Verbena, the Houthis also claimed responsibility for assaults on two other ships in the Red Sea. According to the British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) center, a vessel had been attacked and caught fire, corroborated by a distress call from a merchant vessel hit by a missile. The Houthis stated that they had carried out these attacks "in retaliation to the crimes committed against our people in the Gaza Strip."
In addition to the cruise missile strikes, Central Command reported that the Houthis launched two ballistic missiles in the Red Sea, although these did not cause any injuries or significant damage. Another vessel that was previously missed by the Houthis was hit by a "third projectile," resulting in minor damage but allowing it to continue its journey.
The M/V Verbena, heavily damaged but still operational with power and steering capabilities, underscores the resilience of the maritime industry in the face of escalating threats. Security and military sources told Reuters that despite the severe attack, the ship was able to maintain its navigational functions, a testament to the crew's determination and the ship’s design.
The implications of these attacks extend beyond immediate physical damage. They highlight the growing dangers faced by commercial shipping in the region, as the conflict in Yemen spills over into international waters. The Houthis' ability to target vessels so effectively raises concerns about maritime security and the potential for further disruptions in vital shipping lanes.
As the international community grapples with the broader implications of the Houthis' maritime aggression, the need for enhanced security measures and coordinated responses becomes increasingly urgent. The attacks not only threaten the safety of sailors and the integrity of commercial cargo but also have the potential to destabilize global trade routes, with far-reaching economic consequences.
In conclusion, the missile attack on the M/V Verbena is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist in global shipping and the complex geopolitical tensions that can impact even the most routine commercial operations. The international community must respond decisively to safeguard maritime routes and ensure the safety and security of all vessels navigating these perilous waters.
