Two sailors were killed in a Houthi missile attack on Wednesday, March 6 on the Greek-owned freight vessel – ‘True Confidence’ in the Red Sea.
Ekathimerini reported that British and US officials said this marked the first fatalities from the Houthi’s since the Iran-aligned Yemeni group began strikes against shipping in one of the world’s busiest sea lanes.
The attack, which the Houthis took responsibility for, took place around 50 nautical miles off the coast of Yemen’s port of Aden. Greek operators reported that there was no information available about the status of the 20 crew and three armed guards on board at the time of the blaze.
UKMTO WARNING INCIDENT 046
— United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) (@UK_MTO) March 6, 2024
UPDATE 003
ATTACK
Warnings – 2024 (https://t.co/5An1YH0JyE)#MaritimeSecurity #MarSec pic.twitter.com/IOQ232ho1y
Britain’s embassy responded in a statement on X, condemning the attack.
“At least 2 innocent sailors have died. This was the sad but inevitable consequence of the Houthis recklessly firing missiles at international shipping,” the statement read.
“They must stop.
“Our deepest condolences are with the families of those that have died and those that were wounded.”
A US official also confirmed the death of the two soldiers.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency said it had received the report of the incident, which was 54 nautical miles southwest of Aden, near the entrance to the Red Sea. They added that the vessel was abandoned by the crew and was “no longer under command”.
“Coalition forces are supporting the vessel and the crew,” the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency said.
Although the militia has declared intentions to target vessels associated with the United Kingdom, the United States, and Israel, shipping industry insiders have warned that all ships may face potential risks.
Source: Ekathimerini.
