What’s happening
A Norwegian commercial tanker, the STRINDA, was hit by a Houthi cruise missile while en route to the Port of Ashdod in southern Israel. The vessel, which was due to dock on January 4, suffered damage from a fire caused by the attack. All 22 crew members aboard the tanker were reported safe and unharmed.
Why it matters
This event is significant as it marks an escalation in the maritime conflict involving the Iran-aligned Houthis, who have threatened to target all ships heading to Israel. The attack is a direct response to Israel’s activities in Gaza, according to the Houthi military spokesperson. With the Houthis extending their operations beyond their traditional zone of influence, the security of international shipping lanes is increasingly at risk.
Context
The Houthis have declared their intention to block ships heading to Israeli ports as a form of protest and to leverage against Israel’s blockade on Gaza. The attack on the STRINDA took place near the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait. The U.S. Navy destroyer USS MASON responded to the vessel’s distress signal, providing assistance.
The bigger picture
This incident is part of a broader series of attacks on commercial shipping in the region, which has seen the involvement of the U.S. Navy in response to the escalation of maritime threats. The Houthis’ aggressive stance aligns with the objectives of the Axis of Resistance, which includes groups targeting Israeli and U.S. interests in support of Hamas. The international community, particularly the United States and Britain, have condemned these attacks, with Iran being implicated for its support of the Houthis.
What’s next
The Norwegian owner of the tanker has confirmed that the STRINDA is headed to a safe port, and the crew is unharmed. The situation remains tense as the Houthis continue to assert their willingness to engage in maritime disruptions. Responses from affected nations and the global maritime industry are likely to evolve as they address the heightened risk to shipping in the region.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.