The Yemeni government is seeking international help to prevent a disaster after a Houthi missile struck the UK-registered Rubymar, a cargo ship carrying fertilizer and dangerous goods in the Red Sea last week.
This plea comes as Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden have increased since November. The Iran-backed group says they’re targeting vessels linked to Israel, and have recently hit US and British ships.
The US continues to launch frequent strikes against Houthi positions and intercept their attacks using drones, missiles, and boats.
EU ships stand ready to join French destroyers in the Red Sea to counter Houthi assaults, while China has sent a war fleet amid concerns for millions of Yemenis reliant on international aid.
Since Nov. 19, Houthis have stepped up attacks on ships in the Red Sea. Their leader claims 48 assaults, damaging at least 11 ships.
The Yemeni government’s plea for help comes as a US warning highlights the risk of an environmental disaster if the Rubymar, leaking fuel and taking on water, were to sink.
Yemen’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak has formed an emergency committee to tackle the crisis involving the hit ship.
The ship, flagged under Belize, was attacked by the Houthis last Sunday. It was loaded with ammonia, oils, and dangerous substances, posing a serious threat to marine life.
The Yemeni government urged countries and organizations concerned with marine environments to assist in preventing a potential environmental disaster and to act swiftly on the potential crisis.
In an official statement, the government condemned the Houthi attack, which caused significant damage and forced the crew to evacuate.
The drifting ship is reportedly heading towards Yemen’s Hanish Islands in the Red Sea, raising fears of a major environmental catastrophe.
