Yemeni Houthis Sink Greek Cargo Ship in Red Sea Attack

A Greek cargo ship has been sunk in the Red Sea following a multi-stage attack widely attributed to Yemen’s Houthi rebels, according to maritime agencies.

The vessel, Magic Seas, sailing under the Liberian flag and operated by a Greek firm, was targeted Sunday some 51 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s Hodeidah port.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the bulk carrier was first attacked by eight small boats using small arms and self-propelled grenades. Security personnel aboard the ship returned fire but failed to prevent further escalation.

British maritime security firm Ambrey said the assailants later launched four unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), two of which struck the ship’s port side, damaging cargo and sparking a fire.

According to UKMTO, the vessel eventually began taking on water, and the crew was forced to abandon ship. They were rescued by a passing merchant vessel. All crew members are reported safe.

No group has claimed responsibility, but maritime analysts said the tactics and target profile match previous Houthi operations.

This is the first ship to be sunk since the end of the 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June.

The Houthis have carried out over 100 attacks on commercial vessels since November 2023, disrupting Red Sea shipping in what they describe as a campaign supporting Palestinians amid the Gaza war.

Attacks had largely paused following a ceasefire agreement in May, but tensions have risen again amid renewed missile activity in the region and a fragile ceasefire in Gaza.