The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the suspicious approach of an unmanned surface drone on a merchant vessel near Yemen’s coast on Friday, marking the end of an 18-day period without Houthi attacks in the region.
The incident took place approximately 45 nautical miles south of Al Mukha in the Bab El-Mandeb Strait, the UKMTO reported.
Martin Kelly, Head of Advisory at EOS Risk Group, offered insight into the situation on X, stating: “Today marks the longest period (18 days) without a Houthi attack against shipping since they began on 19 Nov, 23.”
The resumption of attacks coincides with the successful towing operation of the Greek-registered oil tanker MT SOUNION, which was set on fire by Houthi militants last month.
Since November 2023, the Iranian-backed Houthis have attacked over 80 commercial ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. According to the Houthis, the attacks are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.