Yemen’s Houthi movement said on Monday that it had launched a ballistic missile at an Israeli-owned vessel in the Red Sea, escalating tensions in one of the world’s busiest maritime routes. The group claimed responsibility for targeting the Scarlet Ray, a cargo ship linked to Israeli interests.
Maritime security agencies confirmed to different news organisations that a missile was fired but missed its target.
The vessel and its crew were reported safe, and there was no damage. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said it was aware of the incident and advised ships transiting the Red Sea to exercise caution.
The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, have stepped up attacks on commercial and military shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, declaring they will target Israeli or Israel-linked vessels in response to the ongoing war in Gaza. They have also carried out drone and missile attacks on Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in the past.
Israel has yet to comment on the latest incident. However, it comes at a time when the country is already deeply engaged militarily in Gaza and facing growing pressure from multiple fronts. Analysts warn that Houthi strikes on international shipping lanes risk drawing in greater international military involvement, given the Red Sea’s role as a vital passage for global trade.
The United States and its allies have previously intercepted Houthi projectiles in the region, stressing the need to protect freedom of navigation. Monday’s incident underscores how the Gaza conflict is fueling instability across the Middle East, with regional actors increasingly using military actions to signal solidarity or retaliation.
Though the missile missed, security experts caution that continued attacks could disrupt trade, raise shipping costs, and spark wider escalation.
