Ten Still Missing After Houthi Attacks Sink Two Ships in the Red Sea
At least four sailors are dead and ten remain missing following two separate attacks by Houthi rebels on ships in the Red Sea, according to multiple sources. The attacks, which involved missiles, drones, and explosive boats, targeted the Liberian-flagged bulker MV Magic Seas on July 6th and the Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned cargo ship Eternity C on July 7th, both resulting in the vessels sinking. The incidents have sparked international condemnation and raised serious concerns about regional stability and the safety of maritime navigation.
Rescue Efforts and Casualty Figures
While some crew members have been rescued—including four more survivors pulled from the sea on July 10th—the fate of ten others remains unknown. The Eternity C, carrying a crew of 24 (21 Filipinos, one Russian, and a three-member security team), sank on July 8th. Initial reports indicated casualties, but the confirmed death toll now stands at four. The MV Magic Seas, carrying 17 Filipino crew members and two others, sank shortly after the initial Houthi attack. All crew members aboard the MV Magic Seas were initially rescued. The discrepancies in the number of missing initially reported highlight the chaotic and rapidly evolving nature of the rescue operation.
Houthi Claims and International Accusations
Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed responsibility for the attacks, stating they were in solidarity with Palestinians and targeted ships with alleged ties to Israel. The Houthis released video footage purporting to show the sinking of the Eternity C and claimed to have rescued and provided medical care to some crew members. However, the U.S. Embassy in Yemen accused the Houthis of kidnapping surviving crew members, a claim that adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
International Response and Condemnation
The attacks have drawn sharp criticism from numerous international actors. The United States condemned the attacks as a threat to freedom of navigation and regional security, while the United Kingdom described them as "reckless." The European Union naval mission Operation Aspides confirmed details of the attacks, casualties, and rescue efforts. The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, decried the targeting of civilian infrastructure. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in the Philippines, where many of the crew members are from, confirmed ongoing search operations and suspended the licenses of manning agencies involved with the Eternity C citing safety protocol violations.
Impact on Global Shipping and Regional Security
The attacks have had a significant impact on global shipping. Shipping companies are re-routing vessels around Africa to avoid the Red Sea, increasing transit times and operational costs. This leads to higher insurance premiums and potential price increases for consumers. The incidents also contribute to heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and broader Iran-Israel/US conflicts.
The Role of Maritime Security and Intelligence
Maritime security firms, such as Ambrey, are providing intelligence and details on the attacks, highlighting the increased need for robust risk assessments and security measures in the region. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and other international bodies are closely monitoring the situation and issuing warnings to shipping companies.
Ongoing Search and Investigation
Search operations for the remaining missing crew members are ongoing. The investigation into the attacks is also underway, with various international bodies working to determine the full extent of the events and hold those responsible accountable. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the fate of the missing sailors remains a pressing concern.
Timeline of Events
July 6, 2025: Houthi attack on MV Magic Seas, leading to its sinking. All crew rescued. July 7, 2025: Houthi attack on Eternity C. July 8, 2025: Eternity C sinks. July 9-10, 2025: Rescue efforts for Eternity C crew, confirming deaths and ongoing missing persons.
Key Stakeholders Involved
This incident involves a complex interplay of stakeholders, including the Houthi rebels, the shipping companies (Cosmoship Management), the crew members (primarily Filipino), international maritime organizations (UKMTO, Operation Aspides), various governments (US, UK, Yemen), and the global shipping industry.
