The Yemeni Houthi forces have claimed responsibility for three attacks on cargo ships over two days. The most recent attack allegedly involved missiles and drones targeting the 5,652 TEU container ship MSC Unific VI, which sails between Djibouti, Colombo, and Salalah. The ship, owned by MSC and flying the Liberian flag, has previously been targeted on July 1st, along with chemical tankers Delonix and Lucky Sailor and a British military vessel.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that on July 15, 2024, the Houthis launched a maritime drone against the Bentley I tanker, owned by the Swiss company Navimar, transporting vegetable oil from Russia to China. The vessel was undamaged and continued its voyage. Another maritime drone hit the Aframax tanker Chios Lion, owned by the Greek company Vafias. The ship sustained minor damage and continued its journey independently.
The Houthi activities have also impacted the Israeli port of Eilat, where a drone attack was claimed. Although no damage estimates have been provided, the port has been virtually inactive for eight months. CEO Gideon Golbert attributed this to ships avoiding the port due to fears of Houthi attacks. Eilat is Israel's smallest port after Ashdod and Haifa, mainly handling bulk goods, vehicles, and containers. In March 2024, the port laid off nearly half of its staff.
