As per reports on Friday (4 October), a British oil tanker, the Cordelia Moon, was attacked by Houthi rebel drones in the Red Sea, causing a massive explosion. The Iran-backed militia, known for launching attacks against various targets, shared footage of the tanker engulfed in flames on social media. The attack involved a combination of ballistic missiles, winged missiles, a drone, and an unmanned surface boat.
The explosion damaged the ship’s port side buoyancy tanks, releasing thick black smoke and flames that shot hundreds of feet into the air. The incident occurred around 70 miles from the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah, a region that has seen frequent conflict involving the Houthis. The ship was flying a Panama flag during the attack.
Houthi rebels, who have been increasingly targeting vessels in the Red Sea, claimed responsibility for the assault. This attack follows a series of missile launches by the militia in recent days, aimed at various targets, including Israel. The rebels’ use of sophisticated weaponry in these incidents highlights growing concerns over maritime security in the region.
The attack on the Cordelia Moon is part of a broader conflict involving the Houthis and their regional adversaries. The incident has sparked outrage internationally and raised alarms about the safety of shipping lanes in the Red Sea, a crucial route for global oil transportation. Authorities are investigating the full extent of the damage and considering measures to ensure the safety of other vessels in the area.
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