Renewed Houthi Attacks Cripple Red Sea Shipping
Houthi rebels have dramatically escalated attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, causing the sinking of at least one vessel, the death of multiple crew members, and the disappearance of others. This renewed campaign, following a brief lull after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire earlier this year, has severely disrupted global supply chains and sparked international condemnation.
Deadly Attacks on Commercial Vessels
The attacks began on July 6th, 2025, with the drone, ballistic and cruise missile, explosive boat, small arms, and rocket-propelled grenade assault on the Greek-operated, Liberian-flagged bulk carrier MV Magic Seas. All 22 crew members were rescued by a UAE vessel. The Houthis claimed responsibility, stating the ship had previously docked in Israel.
The situation worsened with the attack on the Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned bulk carrier Eternity C, which commenced on July 7th and culminated in the vessel sinking on July 9th. This protracted assault involved sea drones, speedboats, and missiles. At least four crew members perished, ten were rescued, and the fate of eleven remains unknown, with six believed to be held captive by the Houthis.
Houthi Justification and Israeli Retaliation
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree justified the attacks as part of an ongoing campaign against Israel, aiming to pressure an end to the "aggression against Gaza" and the lifting of the blockade. He declared any ship with ties to Israel a "legitimate target," vowing to prevent Israeli navigation in the Red and Arabian Seas.
Following the Magic Seas attack, Israel reportedly launched airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas near the Yemeni port city of Hodeida, targeting, among other locations, the Galaxy Leader, a ship captured by the Houthis in late 2023. The Houthis responded by launching missiles toward Israel.
Attempted Attack on Ben Gurion Airport
On July 10th, Houthi rebels attempted to strike Israel's Ben Gurion Airport with a ballistic missile, which was intercepted by the Israeli military. This escalation further heightened regional tensions.
Timeline of Key Events
October 19, 2023:
The Red Sea crisis began with Houthi missile and drone launches toward Israel.
November 2023 - January 2025:
Over 100 commercial vessels were targeted, with two sunk and four sailors killed before the recent escalation.
January 19, 2025:
Houthis announced a suspension of attacks on non-Israeli vessels.
July 6, 2025:
Attack on MV Magic Seas.
July 7, 2025:
Attack on Eternity C began.
July 9, 2025:
Eternity C sank.
July 10, 2025:
Houthi attempt to strike Ben Gurion Airport.
Impact on Key Stakeholders
Houthis (Ansar Allah):
The Iran-backed rebel group controlling northern Yemen, claiming solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and pressuring Israel.
Israel:
Primary target of Houthi aggression, experiencing an 85% decrease in Eilat port activity, leading to bankruptcy.
Shipping Companies:
Facing increased insurance costs (up to 250%), rerouting vessels, and crew safety risks. Major shipping associations have denounced the attacks.
International Maritime Community:
UKMTO, EU Naval Force (Operation Aspides), and private security firms are involved in monitoring and response.
United States:
Previously involved in a bombing campaign and ceasefire brokering; the U.S. Embassy condemned the attacks.
Egypt:
Severely impacted by Suez Canal traffic disruption, with annual revenue declining from $9.4 billion to $7.2 billion.
Iran:
Widely believed to support the Houthis, although both deny direct control.
UN Security Council:
Repeatedly demanded cessation of Houthi attacks (Resolution 2722, January 2024).
International Condemnation and Warnings
The EU strongly condemned the attacks, highlighting the threat to maritime security. The UN Special Envoy, Hans Grundberg, expressed grave concern over the escalation and civilian casualties. The U.S. Embassy in Yemen stated that the Houthis' actions will only further their isolation.
Economic and Humanitarian Consequences
Shipping insurance costs have nearly doubled. The Port of Eilat declared bankruptcy. The attacks threaten global supply chains, causing delays and potential price increases for consumers. The humanitarian situation in Yemen is further exacerbated.
