Houthi attack oil tankers off Yemeni coast; no casualties
Saudi, Panama tankers attacked off Yemen coast; Houthis claim responsibility
Two oil tankers, the Saudi-flagged Amjad and the Panama-flagged Blue Lagoon I, came under attack off the coast of Yemen on Monday by the Houthi. Yemen’s Houthis claimed responsibility for targeting the Blue Lagoon with missiles and drones, but did not mention the Saudi tanker.
The vessels were sailing in close proximity when they were struck, but neither sustained significant damage, and no casualties were reported. The Amjad, owned by the Saudi national shipping group Bahri, has a capacity of 2 million barrels. Bahri did not respond to requests for comment. The Blue Lagoon I, managed by Greek company Sea Trade Marine SA, has a capacity of 1 million barrels. Sea Trade Marine SA was also unavailable for comment.
One source suggested that the Amjad might not have been the intended target. Saudi Arabia, a leading oil exporter, has been concerned about Houthi missile attacks targeting ships in the Red Sea. The kingdom has been seeking to extricate itself from the conflict in Yemen and its tensions with Iran, the Houthis’ main supporter.
The Houthis began targeting the waterway with aerial drones and missiles in November, claiming it was in solidarity with Palestinians amidst the Gaza conflict. Over 70 attacks have occurred, resulting in the sinking of two vessels, the seizure of another, and the deaths of at least three seafarers.
The Joint Maritime Information Center, which monitors Houthi attacks, reported that three ballistic missiles hit the Blue Lagoon I tanker 70 nautical miles northwest of Saleef, a northern Yemeni port. The center’s report suggested that the Blue Lagoon I was targeted because of recent port calls in Israel by other vessels within its company structure.
All crew members on board the Blue Lagoon I were reported safe, with the vessel sustaining minimal damage and not requiring assistance.
What Other Media Are Saying
- US News reports that British maritime agencies have reported attacks off Yemen’s coast, raising safety concerns across the region. (read more)
- Yemen Shabab reports that a Saudi oil tanker and a Panamanian-flagged vessel were attacked in the Red Sea, with Houthi involvement suspected but not confirmed. (read more)
- Business Recorder reports that Saudi tanker and a Panama-flagged oil ship were attacked in the Red Sea off Yemen, although no major damage was reported. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened to the oil tankers in the Red Sea?
Two oil tankers, Amjad and Blue Lagoon I, were attacked off Yemen but sustained minimal damage and no casualties.
Who claimed responsibility for the attacks on the oil tankers?
Yemen’s Houthis claimed responsibility for targeting the Blue Lagoon I with missiles and drones.
Did the attack cause any major damage to the tankers?
No, both tankers were able to continue their voyages with minimal damage.
Why was the Blue Lagoon I tanker targeted?
The Blue Lagoon I was targeted likely due to its company structure making recent port calls in Israel.
Were there any casualties from the tanker attacks?
No, there were no casualties reported from the attacks on the tankers.
