Attacks by Houthi Rebels in the Red Sea
On July 10, 2025, the US embassy in Yemen reported that Houthi militants attacked a cargo ship in the Red Sea, resulting in three fatalities and two injuries, while several crew members went missing.
This assault targeted the Greek-owned vessel, Eternal C, following a previous strike on another vessel, Magical Sea, which was hit with drones, missiles, rocket-propelled grenades, and firearms.
The Houthis shared footage showcasing their attack. In the video, they could be seen storming the ship, chanting slogans against the US and Israel, and planting explosives, which ultimately led to the ship sinking.
“We haven’t observed significant attacks on commercial shipping since last December,” remarked Wolf-Christian Paes, a senior fellow at the Institute for International Strategy. “And now, they’ve returned with a vengeance.”
Paes speculated that the recent rise in attacks could be linked to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the White House, suggesting it may have motivated the Houthis to strike at merchant vessels, even though Greek ships are not connected to the US.
“This might be an opportunistic move given Netanyahu’s presence in Washington and the overall regional tension,” he suggested.
Following the attack, the European naval force Operation Aspides managed to rescue ten crew members of the Eternal C. Meanwhile, the US embassy in Yemen is advocating for the release of crew members who were allegedly captured during the incident.
“After killing sailors and sinking ships, the Houthis demonstrate why they are labeled as terrorists,” stated the US Embassy.
These recent assaults illustrate a renewed effort by the Iran-aligned Houthis to target international shipping. Since the escalation of conflicts in October 2023, they have attacked merchant vessels as well as US and Israeli warships.
“We are experiencing heightened concerns about the recent escalation in the Red Sea, especially following these attacks,” said UN envoy Hans Grandberg, emphasizing the risk to civilian lives and environmental safety.
State Department spokesman Tammy Bruce added, “The United States remains committed to ensuring freedom of navigation and will act as needed to protect against Houthi threats.”
Historically, the Houthis have targeted over 100 merchant ships between November 2023 and January 2025, sinking two and claiming the lives of four sailors, which has significantly hindered maritime traffic through the Red Sea.
