Yemen's Houthi rebels have increased the scale of attack on the ships in Red Sea in response to the bombings by Israel in Gaza. The attack affects the global supply chains, leading to an increased worry regarding the Global Economy.

Yemen's Houthis attack ships in Red Sea | World DNA | WION

The Indian Navy has evacuated an injured sailor from a hijacked vessel that appeared to be based out of Malta. The personnel from Malta-flagged vessel was rescued off the coast of Somalia, Press Trust of India reported.

The sailor is a Bulgarian national. He was reportedly one of the&nbsp;18 crew members onboard the cargo ship and was injured in firing by the pirates.

The Bulgarian national&nbsp;was evacuated by frontline ship INS Kochi and was further transported for being provided&nbsp;urgent medical assistance.

"The Indian Navy rendered assistance in evacuation of an injured crew member from the hijacked vessel MV Ruen in the early hours of Monday," PTI quoted an official as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-averts-hijacking-crisis-in-arabian-sea-rescues-malta-flagged-vessel-670242">Indian Navy rushes to rescue Malta-flagged vessel under attack by pirate group</a>

"The injured crew member had sustained injuries during the piracy incident but was reported to be stable… The injured crew member was medically managed onboard the ship but due to urgent medical attention required, which was beyond the scope of the ship, he has been transferred ashore at Oman," the official further said.

Indian Navy spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal told the Press Trust of India that the country's&nbsp;naval forces remain committed to render assistance to the mariners at sea.

<h2>Indian Navy rescues mariner off Somalia Coast: How did it happen?</h2>

Indian Navy responded to a distress call and swiftly deployed&nbsp;frontline ship INS Kochi as well as an aircraft. The Indian Navy's maritime patrol aircraft further conducted surveillance missions in the area while its warship on anti-piracy patrol in the Gulf of Aden was pressed to locate and assist MV Ruen.

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian Navy's sea dragons played crucial roles in classified missions

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"The aircraft overflew the hijacked vessel early December 15 and the aircraft has been continuously monitoring movement of the vessel, which is now heading towards the coast of Somalia," the Navy statement said, adding the Naval warship intercepted MV Ruen on the morning of December 16.

India is a signatory to the&nbsp;United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and is committed to assist civil mariners.&nbsp;

The Article 98 of the UNCLOS specifies duty of the signatories to 'render assistance'.&nbsp;

"Every State shall require the mast&nbsp;of a ship flying its flag, in so far as he can do so without serious danger to the ship, the crew or the passengers," it says.

Under Article 98 (1) (c), the signatories are committed to "proceed with all possible speed to the rescue of persons in distress, if informed of their need of assistance."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Navy has evacuated an injured sailor from a hijacked vessel that appeared to be based out of Malta. The personnel from Malta-flagged vessel was rescued off the coast of Somalia, Press Trust of India reported.

The Indian Navy has evacuated an injured sailor from a hijacked vessel that appeared to be based out of Malta. The personnel from Malta-flagged vessel was rescued off the coast of Somalia, Press Trust of India reported. The sailor is a Bulgarian national. He was reportedly one of the 18 crew members onboard the cargo ship and was injured in firing by the pirates. The Bulgarian national was evacuated by frontline ship INS Kochi and was further transported for being provided urgent medical assistance. "The Indian Navy rendered assistance in evacuation of an injured crew member from the hijacked vessel MV Ruen in the early hours of Monday," PTI quoted an official as saying. Also read | Indian Navy rushes to rescue Malta-flagged vessel under attack by pirate group "The injured crew member had sustained injuries during the piracy incident but was reported to be stable… The injured crew member was medically managed onboard the ship but due to urgent medical attention required, which was beyond the scope of the ship, he has been transferred ashore at Oman," the official further said. Indian Navy spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal told the Press Trust of India that the country's naval forces remain committed to render assistance to the mariners at sea. Indian Navy rescues mariner off Somalia Coast: How did it happen? Indian Navy responded to a distress call and swiftly deployed frontline ship INS Kochi as well as an aircraft. The Indian Navy's maritime patrol aircraft further conducted surveillance missions in the area while its warship on anti-piracy patrol in the Gulf of Aden was pressed to locate and assist MV Ruen. Also watch | Indian Navy's sea dragons played crucial roles in classified missions × "The aircraft overflew the hijacked vessel early December 15 and the aircraft has been continuously monitoring movement of the vessel, which is now heading towards the coast of Somalia," the Navy statement said, adding the Naval warship intercepted MV Ruen on the morning of December 16. India is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and is committed to assist civil mariners. The Article 98 of the UNCLOS specifies duty of the signatories to 'render assistance'. "Every State shall require the mast of a ship flying its flag, in so far as he can do so without serious danger to the ship, the crew or the passengers," it says. Under Article 98 (1) (c), the signatories are committed to "proceed with all possible speed to the rescue of persons in distress, if informed of their need of assistance." (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Navy becomes saviour for Bulgarian national stuck on hijacked ship

Tensions spilling over from Gaza to Red Sea, Houthis say 'Israel must stop attacking Gaza strip'

The US and its allies have announced a 10 nation patrol force to counter attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. After several commercial vessels were attacked.

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin announces naval operation over Red Sea | World News | WION

The crisis in the Red Sea with continuing Houthi attacks, and the need for more Indian workers in Israel topped the focus during Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu's talks on Tuesday (Dec 19). The Red Sea shipping route has been disrupted due to attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, with fears of it leading to an escalation in global crude oil prices.&nbsp;

"The two leaders discussed the importance of securing freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb, which is threatened by the aggression of the Houthis, instigated by Iran, and the global interest in preventing attacks on the global economy and trade, as well as the Indian and Israeli economies," the Israeli prime minister's office said in a readout.

The Indian readout mirrored these concerns, saying that "the two leaders shared concerns regarding the safety of maritime traffic," underscoring the critical nature of maintaining secure sea routes.&nbsp;

In addition to addressing the Red Sea crisis, the Israeli PM briefed the Indian side about the ongoing situation, concerning the&nbsp;Israel-Hamas conflict.

Indian Prime Minister Modi reiterated the need for continued humanitarian aid for the "affected population", which in this case is the people in Gaza and emphasized an "early and peaceful resolution of the conflict, including the release of all hostages, through dialogue and diplomacy".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-speaks-to-israels-netanyahu-urges-for-early-restoration-of-peace-671389">Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace'</a> 
 
Following the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, Israel initiated a large-scale counteroffensive resulting in numerous casualties among Palestinians in Gaza. This has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in the strip. India sent humanitarian aid to people of Gaza via Egypt.&nbsp;

The Israeli readout further revealed that the leaders "also discussed advancing the arrival of foreign workers from India to the State of Israel". &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indians-stand-firmly-with-israel-pm-modi-receives-update-from-netanyahu-amid-hamas-conflict-645101">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas 'Indians stand firmly with Israel': PM Modi receives update from Netanyahu amid Hamas conflict</a>

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Israel aims to facilitate the entry of more Indian workers through government-to-government programmes, focussing on sectors such as caregiving, construction, and agriculture.&nbsp;

During a previous visit by the Israeli foreign minister to India, a framework agreement was signed with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to facilitate the recruitment of workers from India to Israel. In a move to address labour shortages, Israel has temporarily permitted its private sector a limited quota for foreign workers, including 5,000 in agriculture and 10,000 in construction over a three-month period.

The crisis in the Red Sea with continuing Houthi attacks, and the need for more Indian workers in Israel topped the focus during Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu's talks on Tuesday (Dec 19).

The crisis in the Red Sea with continuing Houthi attacks, and the need for more Indian workers in Israel topped the focus during Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu's talks on Tuesday (Dec 19). The Red Sea shipping route has been disrupted due to attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, with fears of it leading to an escalation in global crude oil prices. "The two leaders discussed the importance of securing freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb, which is threatened by the aggression of the Houthis, instigated by Iran, and the global interest in preventing attacks on the global economy and trade, as well as the Indian and Israeli economies," the Israeli prime minister's office said in a readout. The Indian readout mirrored these concerns, saying that "the two leaders shared concerns regarding the safety of maritime traffic," underscoring the critical nature of maintaining secure sea routes. In addition to addressing the Red Sea crisis, the Israeli PM briefed the Indian side about the ongoing situation, concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict. Indian Prime Minister Modi reiterated the need for continued humanitarian aid for the "affected population", which in this case is the people in Gaza and emphasized an "early and peaceful resolution of the conflict, including the release of all hostages, through dialogue and diplomacy". Also read | PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace' Following the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, Israel initiated a large-scale counteroffensive resulting in numerous casualties among Palestinians in Gaza. This has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in the strip. India sent humanitarian aid to people of Gaza via Egypt. The Israeli readout further revealed that the leaders "also discussed advancing the arrival of foreign workers from India to the State of Israel". Watch | Gravitas 'Indians stand firmly with Israel': PM Modi receives update from Netanyahu amid Hamas conflict Israel aims to facilitate the entry of more Indian workers through government-to-government programmes, focussing on sectors such as caregiving, construction, and agriculture. During a previous visit by the Israeli foreign minister to India, a framework agreement was signed with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to facilitate the recruitment of workers from India to Israel. In a move to address labour shortages, Israel has temporarily permitted its private sector a limited quota for foreign workers, including 5,000 in agriculture and 10,000 in construction over a three-month period.

Red Sea shipping crisis, Indian workers top agenda in Modi-Netanyahu talks

Red Sea attacks disrupt sea shipping: 10 nation-coalition to combat Houthi attacks | WION

US announces 10-nation force to patrol Red Sea routes against Houthi rebels

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday held a joint press conference with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. Austin emphasised the USA's commitment to Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas while also expressing a desire for regional stability for both Palestinians and Israelis.

Houthi attacks on shipping in Red Sea threaten global consequences

During the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Houthi rebels in Yemen have intensified their attacks on ships traversing the Red Sea, causing worry about the effects on the flow of consumer goods, grain, and oil through a vital global trade route.

Red Sea Trouble: Key details about the combined task force 153

The United States wants to form the "broadest possible" maritime coalition to protect ships in the Red Sea and send an "important signal" to Yemen's Houthis that further attacks will not be tolerated, the U.S. envoy for Yemen.

US seeks 'broadest possible' Red Sea maritime coalition against Houthi attacks

The consequences of Israel's military operation in Gaza continues to be seen in the waters of Red Sea. Iran-backed Houthi group mounts fresh attack on private vessels passing through the key trade route.

Iran-backed Houthi group mounts fresh attack on private vessels

Houthis target vessels in Red Sea after no response to repeated calls

Yemen's Houthi movement attacked two commercial ships in the Red Sea with naval drones on Monday, the Iran-backed group said, the latest in a surge of attacks over Israel's military campaign in Gaza.

Houthi spokesperson Yahya Sarea identified the vessels as the MSC Clara and Norwegian-owned Swan Atlantic, and said the attacks were carried out after their crews failed to respond to calls from the group.

The Swan Atlantic's owner said the ship had been struck by an unidentified object but none of the crew was hurt.

The MSC Clara is a Panama-flagged vessel, according to LSEG data. Details of the attack on the vessel were not immediately known.

The Houthis say they have been attacking vessels in the Red Sea with links to Israel in protest against its military offensive against Hamas in Gaza, and have warned against sailing towards the area.

The attacks have caused concerns about the impact on the passage of oil, grain and other goods on what is an important global trade route, and have pushed up the cost of insuring and shipping goods through the Red Sea.

Soon after the latest attacks, London's insurance market widened the area in the Red Sea it deems as high risk.

Taiwan's Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation said it would divert any of its ships sailing through the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden via the Cape of Good Hope for the next two weeks.

Norway-based oil tanker group Frontline said its vessels would also start avoiding passages through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

"War risk insurance premiums are on the rise naturally, but as vessels gets re-routed around Africa shipping supply will be tighter as cargoes travel longer. That would put rates under a strong upwards pressure," CEO Lars Barstad told Reuters.

The announcement followed decisions by two major freight firms including MSC, the world's biggest container shipping line, to&nbsp;avoid&nbsp;the Suez Canal in response to the attacks by Houthi forces, which control most of Yemen, a poor Arab state.

The Suez Canal shipping route, which leads to the Red Sea, is a vital waterway for global trade, used to transport energy and other goods between Europe and Asia, and elsewhere. The route saves on time and expense by avoiding having to navigate around the entire Africa continent.

<h2 data-testid="Heading">ONBOARD FIRE</h2>

Confirming Monday's attack on the Swan Atlantic, US&nbsp;officials told Reuters multiple projectiles had been launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen.

All the ship's system were operating normally although the water tank had been damaged in the attack, said Oystein Elgan, chief executive of owner Inventor Chemical Tankers.

Inventor Chemical Tankers had no Israeli ties, Elgan said.

The vessel's operator, Uni-Tankers, said the attack had caused a small fire which the crew brought under control, and that the ship, carrying vegetable oils, continued to Reunion Island.

A British maritime authority said it had received a report of a vessel that "experienced an explosion" on its port side in an attack 24 nautical miles north west of Yemen's Mokha port.

The vessel and crew were reported safe, it said in an advisory. The incident described by the UKMTO advisory was similar to those of the attack on the Swan Atlantic.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) authority said in a separate advisory it had received a report of a vessel 24 nautical miles southeast of Mokha as being approached by a craft with several armed personnel onboard.

Warning shots were fired from the vessel and the craft with the armed personnel on board changed course, the advisory said.

The UKMTO authority said in other advisories it had received reports of an incident 63 nautical miles northwest of Djibouti and another incident in the vicinity of the Bab Al Mandab strait, 30 nautical miles south of the port Mokha.

The Houthis have pledged to continue their attacks until Israel stops its assault, but said on Saturday that real steps to ease the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip would contribute to "reducing the escalation". They also said that they were in&nbsp;Oman-mediated talks&nbsp;about its sea "operations".

That was the first indication that the militia group may be willing to de-escalate. The US&nbsp;has said it is seeking an expanded&nbsp;coalition&nbsp;to protect ships in the Red Sea and to send a signal to the Houthis, who have also fired drones and missiles at Israel since it began its campaign in Gaza in response to the Hamas rampage in southern Israel on Oct. 7.

Norway's Shipowners' Association said it expected Norwegian and international authorities to come together as soon as possible to secure safe passage for civilian vessels.

Norway's foreign ministry said Oslo was evaluating whether to participate in the proposed US-led maritime coalition.

Yemen's Houthi movement attacked two commercial ships in the Red Sea with naval drones on Monday, the Iran-backed group said, the latest in a surge of attacks over Israel's military campaign in Gaza.

Yemen's Houthi movement attacked two commercial ships in the Red Sea with naval drones on Monday, the Iran-backed group said, the latest in a surge of attacks over Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Sarea identified the vessels as the MSC Clara and Norwegian-owned Swan Atlantic, and said the attacks were carried out after their crews failed to respond to calls from the group. The Swan Atlantic's owner said the ship had been struck by an unidentified object but none of the crew was hurt. The MSC Clara is a Panama-flagged vessel, according to LSEG data. Details of the attack on the vessel were not immediately known. The Houthis say they have been attacking vessels in the Red Sea with links to Israel in protest against its military offensive against Hamas in Gaza, and have warned against sailing towards the area. The attacks have caused concerns about the impact on the passage of oil, grain and other goods on what is an important global trade route, and have pushed up the cost of insuring and shipping goods through the Red Sea. Soon after the latest attacks, London's insurance market widened the area in the Red Sea it deems as high risk. Taiwan's Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation said it would divert any of its ships sailing through the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden via the Cape of Good Hope for the next two weeks. Norway-based oil tanker group Frontline said its vessels would also start avoiding passages through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. "War risk insurance premiums are on the rise naturally, but as vessels gets re-routed around Africa shipping supply will be tighter as cargoes travel longer. That would put rates under a strong upwards pressure," CEO Lars Barstad told Reuters. The announcement followed decisions by two major freight firms including MSC, the world's biggest container shipping line, to avoid the Suez Canal in response to the attacks by Houthi forces, which control most of Yemen, a poor Arab state. The Suez Canal shipping route, which leads to the Red Sea, is a vital waterway for global trade, used to transport energy and other goods between Europe and Asia, and elsewhere. The route saves on time and expense by avoiding having to navigate around the entire Africa continent. ONBOARD FIRE Confirming Monday's attack on the Swan Atlantic, US officials told Reuters multiple projectiles had been launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen. All the ship's system were operating normally although the water tank had been damaged in the attack, said Oystein Elgan, chief executive of owner Inventor Chemical Tankers. Inventor Chemical Tankers had no Israeli ties, Elgan said. The vessel's operator, Uni-Tankers, said the attack had caused a small fire which the crew brought under control, and that the ship, carrying vegetable oils, continued to Reunion Island. A British maritime authority said it had received a report of a vessel that "experienced an explosion" on its port side in an attack 24 nautical miles north west of Yemen's Mokha port. The vessel and crew were reported safe, it said in an advisory. The incident described by the UKMTO advisory was similar to those of the attack on the Swan Atlantic. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) authority said in a separate advisory it had received a report of a vessel 24 nautical miles southeast of Mokha as being approached by a craft with several armed personnel onboard. Warning shots were fired from the vessel and the craft with the armed personnel on board changed course, the advisory said. The UKMTO authority said in other advisories it had received reports of an incident 63 nautical miles northwest of Djibouti and another incident in the vicinity of the Bab Al Mandab strait, 30 nautical miles south of the port Mokha. The Houthis have pledged to continue their attacks until Israel stops its assault, but said on Saturday that real steps to ease the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip would contribute to "reducing the escalation". They also said that they were in Oman-mediated talks about its sea "operations". That was the first indication that the militia group may be willing to de-escalate. The US has said it is seeking an expanded coalition to protect ships in the Red Sea and to send a signal to the Houthis, who have also fired drones and missiles at Israel since it began its campaign in Gaza in response to the Hamas rampage in southern Israel on Oct. 7. Norway's Shipowners' Association said it expected Norwegian and international authorities to come together as soon as possible to secure safe passage for civilian vessels. Norway's foreign ministry said Oslo was evaluating whether to participate in the proposed US-led maritime coalition.

Vessel attacked in Red Sea off Yemen coast, US blames Houthis

The world's biggest container freight companies have temporarily stopped sending their vessels through the Red Sea, threatening to close a vital trade route for Israeli imports and exports from the Far East and their passage to Europe, as Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militants intensify their attacks on Israel-linked ships.

Houthi attacks on Israel-linked ships in Red Sea to raise prices in global market

Houthi Threat in Red Sea: Vessels take new route

Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip is of course continued and now it has spilled over into the Red Sea. The Houthi rebels in Yemen have ramped up their attacks on the Israeli Affiliated ships or any ships that are suspected of being carrying cargo to the Israeli ports.

Houthi Red Sea attacks: Red sea threat impacting global trade

It is 13 weeks now since Hamas raided Israel and took some 240 Israeli hostages close to 100 of them were released during the brief truce. Nearly 110 are still in Hamas captivity here's a video release of calls to free the hostages on behalf of the families of the hostages.

Calls to rescue Israeli hostages from Hamas peak

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement has engaged in Oman-mediated talks with international parties about its operations in the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea. This is according to a Houthi spokesperson. This follows a series of attacks on ships by the militia group. To know more watch this interview with Edward P Joseph, Senior Fellow at the John Hopkins University.

Houthi Red Sea attack: More ships suspend passage in the Red Sea

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement has engaged in Oman-mediated talks with international parties about its operations in the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea. This is according to a Houthi spokesperson. This follows a series of attacks on ships by the militia group.

Houthi Red Sea attack: Yemen Houthis in Oman-mediated talks over Red Sea operations

Houthi Red Sea attack: Houthi's willing to de-escalate activity in Red Sea

Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip has spilled over into the Red Sea. The Houthis have ramped up their attacks on Israeli-affiliated ships or any ships that are suspected of carrying cargo to Israeli ports.

Red Sea threats amid Israel-Hamas war

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials. This comes a day after major shipping firms announced that they would be avoiding the Suez Canal, a key trade route between Europe and Asia, a move which could potentially affect global trade.&nbsp;

<h2>Will US respond to Houthi attacks?</h2>

Over the last few weeks, the Yemen-based Houthis have launched a number of attacks against commercial ships passing through the Red Sea amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

The attacks have mostly been thwarted by the American forces in the region but given the rise of such incidents, the US may be planning to ramp up its forces to now retaliate.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force

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The Pentagon has in recent days moved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group from the Persian Gulf into the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Yemen, to support a potential US response to attacks, one of the American officials told Politico on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

The report citing officials also said that the US military has provided options to commanders to strike the Houthis. However, President Joe Biden’s administration is reluctant to respond to these attacks amid fear of provoking Iran.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Pentagon itself had reportedly recommended against it but given the significant uptick in attacks, US officials may be looking to change their tactics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanker-in-bab-al-mandab-strait-attacked-by-missiles-from-houthi-controlled-yemen-gunmen-on-speedboats-669295">Tanker carrying jet fuel from India hit by missiles from Houthi-controlled Yemen, gunmen on speedboats</a>

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is in the midst of a trip to the Middle East, said Houthis were a “material threat” to shipping and commerce in the region but the ultimate responsibility for the attacks lies with Iran.&nbsp;

<h2>Recent attacks</h2>

As the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages on, Houthis who have expressed support for the Palestinian militant group have issued multiple warnings saying that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports.&nbsp;

On Saturday (Dec 16) morning, the US and United Kingdom navy vessels shot down suspected attack drones which were said to have been targeting shipping vessels.&nbsp;

American destroyer USS Carney shot down 14 one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, said the US Central Command. HMS Diamond, a British destroyer, which was recently deployed in the Red Sea to help protect commercial shipping, also shot down one suspected Houthi drone.

This was a day after two cargo ships in the Red Sea had been attacked by missiles and drones fired from a Houthi-controlled part of Yemen. The attacks took place near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key route for global trade.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-confirms-houthis-hijacked-ship-in-red-sea-but-says-its-not-israeli-vessel-660542">IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel</a>

One ship was also attacked by a suspected Houthi drone but the Iran-backed group did not claim responsibility for it. “We are aware that something launched from a Houthi-controlled region of Yemen struck this vessel which was damaged, and there was a report of a fire,” a US military official told AFP referring to the drone attack.

<h2>Shipping firms to avoid Suez Canal&nbsp;</h2>

Major shipping firms, including MSC, the world’s biggest container shipping line, on Saturday said that they will avoid the Suez Canal in light of the attacks in the Red Sea.&nbsp;

Denmark’s AP Moller-Maersk, on Friday (Dec 15) said that they are pausing all its container shipments through Bab al-Mandab until further notice, Swiss-based MSC and French shipping group CMA CGM followed suit the next day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials.

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials. This comes a day after major shipping firms announced that they would be avoiding the Suez Canal, a key trade route between Europe and Asia, a move which could potentially affect global trade. Will US respond to Houthi attacks? Over the last few weeks, the Yemen-based Houthis have launched a number of attacks against commercial ships passing through the Red Sea amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. The attacks have mostly been thwarted by the American forces in the region but given the rise of such incidents, the US may be planning to ramp up its forces to now retaliate. WATCH | Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force The Pentagon has in recent days moved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group from the Persian Gulf into the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Yemen, to support a potential US response to attacks, one of the American officials told Politico on the condition of anonymity. The report citing officials also said that the US military has provided options to commanders to strike the Houthis. However, President Joe Biden’s administration is reluctant to respond to these attacks amid fear of provoking Iran. Earlier, the Pentagon itself had reportedly recommended against it but given the significant uptick in attacks, US officials may be looking to change their tactics. ALSO READ | Tanker carrying jet fuel from India hit by missiles from Houthi-controlled Yemen, gunmen on speedboats National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is in the midst of a trip to the Middle East, said Houthis were a “material threat” to shipping and commerce in the region but the ultimate responsibility for the attacks lies with Iran. Recent attacks As the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages on, Houthis who have expressed support for the Palestinian militant group have issued multiple warnings saying that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports. On Saturday (Dec 16) morning, the US and United Kingdom navy vessels shot down suspected attack drones which were said to have been targeting shipping vessels. American destroyer USS Carney shot down 14 one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, said the US Central Command. HMS Diamond, a British destroyer, which was recently deployed in the Red Sea to help protect commercial shipping, also shot down one suspected Houthi drone. This was a day after two cargo ships in the Red Sea had been attacked by missiles and drones fired from a Houthi-controlled part of Yemen. The attacks took place near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key route for global trade. ALSO READ | IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel One ship was also attacked by a suspected Houthi drone but the Iran-backed group did not claim responsibility for it. “We are aware that something launched from a Houthi-controlled region of Yemen struck this vessel which was damaged, and there was a report of a fire,” a US military official told AFP referring to the drone attack. Shipping firms to avoid Suez Canal Major shipping firms, including MSC, the world’s biggest container shipping line, on Saturday said that they will avoid the Suez Canal in light of the attacks in the Red Sea. Denmark’s AP Moller-Maersk, on Friday (Dec 15) said that they are pausing all its container shipments through Bab al-Mandab until further notice, Swiss-based MSC and French shipping group CMA CGM followed suit the next day. (With inputs from agencies)

US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report

A British destroyer shot down a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, defence minister Grant Shapps on Saturday (Dec 16) said in a statement, amid growing maritime tensions in the region.

"Overnight, HMS Diamond shot down a suspected attack drone which was targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea. One Sea Viper missile was fired and successfully destroyed the target," Shapps said in a statement posted on X.

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HMS Diamond has shot down a suspected attack drone targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea - destroying the target with a Sea Viper missile. <a href="https://t.co/x68zX4WtWi">pic.twitter.com/x68zX4WtWi</a>
— Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) <a href="https://twitter.com/grantshapps/status/1735979682854826175?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Last month the UK announced that it was sending its most advanced naval vessels to the Gulf to strengthen its presence in the region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ai-giant-sensetime-founder-tang-xiaoou-dies-days-after-revenue-fabrication-row-670309">China: AI giant SenseTime founder Tang Xiao'ou dies days after revenue fabrication row</a>

HMS Diamond, a Type 45 destroyer, is carrying out operations to make sure freedom of navigation, reassure merchant vessels and ensure the safe flow of trade, said the defence ministry.

The deployment of the naval vessel took place&nbsp;following the seizure of an Israeli-linked cargo vessel by Iranian-backed Yemeni Houthi rebels in the Red Sea on Nov 19 amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

On the other hand,&nbsp;the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that&nbsp;an American destroyer on Saturday shot down more than a dozen drones in the Red Sea launched from Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen.

"The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS CARNEY... operating in the Red Sea, successfully engaged 14 unmanned aerial systems launched as a drone wave from Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen," CENTCOM said on X.

<h2>Spate of attacks</h2>

The Yemeni Houthis have launched a series of drone and projectile strikes targetting Israel since Hamas launched unprecedented attacks on Oct 7, claiming the lives of around 1,140 people, mostly civilians, as per Israeli figures.

Nearly 240 people were taken hostages in the attacks. &nbsp;

Israel in retaliation&nbsp;launched a counter-offensive that, as per the Hamas-run territory's health ministry has killed at least 18,800 people, mostly women and children.

The Houthi rebels have threatened to attack any vessels heading to Israeli ports unless food and medicine are allowed into the war-torn Gaza Strip. &nbsp;

On Friday, two of the world's largest shipping firms, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, said that they were suspending passage through a Red Sea strait vital for global commerce, after the incidents.

UK defence minister Grant Shapps&nbsp;warned Saturday that "the recent spate of illegal attacks represent a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security in the Red Sea."

"The UK remains committed to repelling these attacks to protect the free flow of global trade," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

A British destroyer shot down a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, defence minister Grant Shapps on Saturday (Dec 16) said in a statement, amid growing maritime tensions in the region.

A British destroyer shot down a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, defence minister Grant Shapps on Saturday (Dec 16) said in a statement, amid growing maritime tensions in the region. "Overnight, HMS Diamond shot down a suspected attack drone which was targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea. One Sea Viper missile was fired and successfully destroyed the target," Shapps said in a statement posted on X. HMS Diamond has shot down a suspected attack drone targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea - destroying the target with a Sea Viper missile. pic.twitter.com/x68zX4WtWi — Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) December 16, 2023 × Last month the UK announced that it was sending its most advanced naval vessels to the Gulf to strengthen its presence in the region. Also read: China: AI giant SenseTime founder Tang Xiao'ou dies days after revenue fabrication row HMS Diamond, a Type 45 destroyer, is carrying out operations to make sure freedom of navigation, reassure merchant vessels and ensure the safe flow of trade, said the defence ministry. The deployment of the naval vessel took place following the seizure of an Israeli-linked cargo vessel by Iranian-backed Yemeni Houthi rebels in the Red Sea on Nov 19 amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. On the other hand, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that an American destroyer on Saturday shot down more than a dozen drones in the Red Sea launched from Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen. "The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS CARNEY... operating in the Red Sea, successfully engaged 14 unmanned aerial systems launched as a drone wave from Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen," CENTCOM said on X. Spate of attacks The Yemeni Houthis have launched a series of drone and projectile strikes targetting Israel since Hamas launched unprecedented attacks on Oct 7, claiming the lives of around 1,140 people, mostly civilians, as per Israeli figures. Nearly 240 people were taken hostages in the attacks. Israel in retaliation launched a counter-offensive that, as per the Hamas-run territory's health ministry has killed at least 18,800 people, mostly women and children. The Houthi rebels have threatened to attack any vessels heading to Israeli ports unless food and medicine are allowed into the war-torn Gaza Strip. On Friday, two of the world's largest shipping firms, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, said that they were suspending passage through a Red Sea strait vital for global commerce, after the incidents. UK defence minister Grant Shapps warned Saturday that "the recent spate of illegal attacks represent a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security in the Red Sea." "The UK remains committed to repelling these attacks to protect the free flow of global trade," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping'

Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip is of course continued and now it has spilled over into the Red Sea. The Houthi rebels in Yemen have ramped up their attacks on the Israeli Affiliated ships or any ships that are suspected of being carrying cargo to Israeli ports. To know more watch this interview with Glenn Diesen.

Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force

+Houthis spark a Shipping Crisis in Red Sea as Maersk suspends ops amidst Gaza War +23 Pakistani soldiers killed in a terror attack by Tehreek-e-Jihad in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa +China facilitates a Ceasefire between Military Junta and Ethnic Rebels +Venezuela & Guyana agree not to use force to settle their dispute over oil-rich Essequibo Mohammed Saleh gets you an in-depth report of the world's biggest warzones of the week in World At War

Houthis spark a Shipping Crisis in Red Sea as Maersk suspends ops amidst Gaza War

Maersk, which is one of the world's largest shipping companies, has said that it is suspending shipping through Red Sea strait following attacks by&nbsp;Yemeni rebels&nbsp;on merchant ships.

"Following the near-miss incident involving Maersk Gibraltar yesterday and yet another attack on a container vessel today, we have instructed all Maersk vessels in the area bound to pass through the Bab al-Mandab Strait to pause their journey until further notice," the company said in a statement as per AFP.

Reuters quoted a Maersk spokesperson saying that the company will ask the ships to take a detour around Africa.&nbsp;

"Following the near-miss incident involving Maersk Gibraltar yesterday and yet another attack on a container vessel today, we have instructed all Maersk vessels in the area bound to pass through the Bab al-Mandab Strait to pause their journey until further notice," the company said as reported by Reuters.

Watch | Israel-Hamas tops list of Google searches in 2023

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On Thursday, Maersk said that Maersk Gibraltar, one of its ships was targeted by a missile when it was travelling from Salalah, Oman, to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The company said that the crew and vessel were safe.

Earlier on Friday, Maersk denied claim from Iran-backed Yemeni Houthi rebels that they had struck a ship that was sailing towards Israel.

The Houthis&nbsp;claimed without presenting evidence that they had attacked the container vessel with a drone.

"The recent attacks on commercial vessels in the area are alarming and pose a significant threat to the safety and security of seafarers," read the&nbsp;statement by&nbsp;Maersk

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-troops-mistakenly-shot-dead-three-israeli-hostages-says-army-670143">Israel troops 'mistakenly' shot dead three Israeli hostages, says army</a>

Maersk's concerns were echoed by&nbsp;German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock who said earlier on Friday that the attcaks by Houthi rebels were not only threatening Israel but were also a threat to international shipping.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/45pc-of-israeli-air-to-ground-munitions-in-gaza-are-dumb-bombs-reveals-report-669941">45 pc of Israeli air-to-ground munitions in Gaza are 'dumb bombs', reveals report</a>

"These attacks endanger not only Israel's security -- these attacks threaten international maritime shipping and the freedom of trade routes," German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said at a press conference in Berlin. Visiting Lebanese counterpart Abdallah Bou Habib was al present at the media briefing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Maersk, which is one of the world's largest shipping companies, has said that it is suspending shipping through Red Sea strait following attacks by Yemeni rebels on merchant ships.

Maersk, which is one of the world's largest shipping companies, has said that it is suspending shipping through Red Sea strait following attacks by Yemeni rebels on merchant ships. "Following the near-miss incident involving Maersk Gibraltar yesterday and yet another attack on a container vessel today, we have instructed all Maersk vessels in the area bound to pass through the Bab al-Mandab Strait to pause their journey until further notice," the company said in a statement as per AFP. Reuters quoted a Maersk spokesperson saying that the company will ask the ships to take a detour around Africa. "Following the near-miss incident involving Maersk Gibraltar yesterday and yet another attack on a container vessel today, we have instructed all Maersk vessels in the area bound to pass through the Bab al-Mandab Strait to pause their journey until further notice," the company said as reported by Reuters. Watch | Israel-Hamas tops list of Google searches in 2023 × On Thursday, Maersk said that Maersk Gibraltar, one of its ships was targeted by a missile when it was travelling from Salalah, Oman, to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The company said that the crew and vessel were safe. Earlier on Friday, Maersk denied claim from Iran-backed Yemeni Houthi rebels that they had struck a ship that was sailing towards Israel. The Houthis claimed without presenting evidence that they had attacked the container vessel with a drone. "The recent attacks on commercial vessels in the area are alarming and pose a significant threat to the safety and security of seafarers," read the statement by Maersk Also Read | Israel troops 'mistakenly' shot dead three Israeli hostages, says army Maersk's concerns were echoed by German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock who said earlier on Friday that the attcaks by Houthi rebels were not only threatening Israel but were also a threat to international shipping. Also Read | 45 pc of Israeli air-to-ground munitions in Gaza are 'dumb bombs', reveals report "These attacks endanger not only Israel's security -- these attacks threaten international maritime shipping and the freedom of trade routes," German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said at a press conference in Berlin. Visiting Lebanese counterpart Abdallah Bou Habib was al present at the media briefing. (With inputs from agencies)

Maersk suspends shipping through Red Sea strait after attacks from Houthi rebels, opts for long detour

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen launched a missile at a cargo ship which was en route to Saudi Arabia on Thursday (Dec 13). However, the target was missed, said a US official as well as a private intelligence firm. 
 
In the incident, which involved Danish shipping giant Maersk Gibraltar's container ship, no one was hurt. The ship was sailing from Salalah, Oman to Jeddah, stated the Danish shipping giant. 
 
In a statement, Maersk Gibraltar said, "The crew and vessel is reported safe”, further stating that the company was "still working to establish the facts of the incident".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-israel-hamas-war-number-of-journalists-killed-on-job-declines-in-2023-report-669574">Despite Israel-Hamas war, number of journalists killed on job declines in 2023: Report</a>

Meanwhile, a US official said, "We have indications that a missile was fired at the Maersk Gibraltar from a Huthi-controlled area of Yemen, and that it hit the water and missed the ship.”

<h2>Attacks on commercial vessels an issue of concern: Maersk</h2>

The missile attack came at a time when dozens of drones and missiles are being fired daily by the rebels at ships, who have confirmed their support to Palestine in the Israel-Hamas war. 
 
In the statement, Maersk said, "The recent attacks on commercial vessels... are extremely concerning. The current situation puts seafarer lives at risk and is unsustainable for global trade. As it cannot be solved by the global shipping industry on its own, we call on political action to ensure a swift de-escalation." 
 
As per Intelligence firm Ambrey, the Marshall Islands-owned ship fired missiles when it was 45 nautical miles off the coast of Mocha, and added that the crew remained unharmed.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel's Foreign Minister: War in Gaza would continue 'with or without international support'

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"Ambrey understands that the parent company has cooperated with an Israeli carrier but this particular vessel was not assessed to be Israeli-operated at the time of writing," said the firm, in a statement. 
 
The Houthis have announced that they would attack any ship&nbsp;moving off the coast of Yemen and have links to Israel. The attack took place near Bab-el-Mandeb, which is the strait between northeast Africa and Yemen leading to the Red Sea. This is considered a key route for reaching the Suez Canal and Israel's southern port of Eilat. 
 
Ambrey said that the Houthis followed the same pattern which they adopted for other vessels recently. They first ordered the ship to dock in a Yemeni port and then fired it, when it failed to comply with their instructions, the firm added. 
 
Hamas on Saturday (Dec 9) said that they "will prevent the passage of ships heading to the Zionist entity" if medicine and food are not sent into besieged Gaza.

(With&nbsp;inputs from agencies)

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen launched a missile at a cargo ship which was en route to Saudi Arabia on Thursday (Dec 13). However, the target was missed, said a US official as well as a private intelligence firm.

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen launched a missile at a cargo ship which was en route to Saudi Arabia on Thursday (Dec 13). However, the target was missed, said a US official as well as a private intelligence firm. In the incident, which involved Danish shipping giant Maersk Gibraltar's container ship, no one was hurt. The ship was sailing from Salalah, Oman to Jeddah, stated the Danish shipping giant. In a statement, Maersk Gibraltar said, "The crew and vessel is reported safe”, further stating that the company was "still working to establish the facts of the incident". Also read: Despite Israel-Hamas war, number of journalists killed on job declines in 2023: Report Meanwhile, a US official said, "We have indications that a missile was fired at the Maersk Gibraltar from a Huthi-controlled area of Yemen, and that it hit the water and missed the ship.” Attacks on commercial vessels an issue of concern: Maersk The missile attack came at a time when dozens of drones and missiles are being fired daily by the rebels at ships, who have confirmed their support to Palestine in the Israel-Hamas war. In the statement, Maersk said, "The recent attacks on commercial vessels... are extremely concerning. The current situation puts seafarer lives at risk and is unsustainable for global trade. As it cannot be solved by the global shipping industry on its own, we call on political action to ensure a swift de-escalation." As per Intelligence firm Ambrey, the Marshall Islands-owned ship fired missiles when it was 45 nautical miles off the coast of Mocha, and added that the crew remained unharmed. Watch: Israel's Foreign Minister: War in Gaza would continue 'with or without international support' "Ambrey understands that the parent company has cooperated with an Israeli carrier but this particular vessel was not assessed to be Israeli-operated at the time of writing," said the firm, in a statement. The Houthis have announced that they would attack any ship moving off the coast of Yemen and have links to Israel. The attack took place near Bab-el-Mandeb, which is the strait between northeast Africa and Yemen leading to the Red Sea. This is considered a key route for reaching the Suez Canal and Israel's southern port of Eilat. Ambrey said that the Houthis followed the same pattern which they adopted for other vessels recently. They first ordered the ship to dock in a Yemeni port and then fired it, when it failed to comply with their instructions, the firm added. Hamas on Saturday (Dec 9) said that they "will prevent the passage of ships heading to the Zionist entity" if medicine and food are not sent into besieged Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

Yemen’s Houthi rebels hit cargo ship with missiles in Red Sea

Ripples of the Gaza war are being felt miles away in the Red Sea. Yemen’s Houthi rebels have vowed to attack all ships bound for Israel. They call it their response to Israeli atrocities in Gaza. It has the west alarmed. What can the Houthis do - are they a serious threat? Ghadi Francis explains.

Yemen Houthis attack ships in the Red Sea

Yemen's Houthi rebels have carried out another attack in the Red Sea. A commercial tanker shipped from India narrowly escaped two missiles launched by the group on Wednesday and this comes just a day after they attacked a Norwegian oil tanker a day before as well.

Israel-Hamas war: Houthis attack oil tanker from India in Red Sea, was headed from Mangalore

The Red Sea has become a dangerous flashpoint. The maritime lifeline is in danger of becoming a death line as Houthis, Based in Yemen, have begun attacks on ships doing commerce with Israel. Such is the situation that the US has reached out to China, to help it protect the vital shipping lane.

Israel forces deploy 'Sa'ar 6' to counter Houthis as their attacks rise in Red Sea

The Red Sea has become a dangerous flashpoint. The maritime lifeline is in danger of becoming a death line as Houthis, Based in Yemen, have begun attacks on ships doing commerce with Israel. Such is the situation that the U.S. has reached out to China, to help it protect the vital shipping lane.

Houthi missile strikes Norwegian tanker, causes a large fire onboard ship 'Strinda' | WION

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