The US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that Yemen’s Houthis fired at least five missiles towards a Chinese vessel in the Red Sea.
According to CENTCOM, the Iranian-backed group targeted the M/V Huang Pu, a Panamanian-flagged, Chinese-owned, and operated oil tanker, with four anti-ship ballistic missiles on Saturday. Another ballistic missile was detected heading towards the same vessel.
Although the ship issued a distress call, it did not request assistance. The M/V Huang Pu sustained minimal damage, and a fire on board was swiftly extinguished within 30 minutes. There were no reported casualties, and the vessel resumed its course.
The statement from CENTCOM noted that the Houthis’ attack on the M/V Huang Pu contradicted their earlier declaration that they would not target Chinese vessels.
Yemen’s Houthi group has been known to target cargo ships in the Red Sea, particularly those owned or operated by Israeli companies or involved in trade with Israel, as a show of solidarity with the Gaza Strip amid ongoing conflicts.
The Red Sea serves as a crucial maritime route for oil and fuel shipments, making such attacks a matter of concern for international maritime security.
