Sana’a, Yemen( The COW News Digital)Yemen’s Houthi-led Ansar Allah movement has claimed responsibility for sinking an Israel-bound cargo ship, Magic Seas, in the Red Sea, intensifying regional maritime tensions. According to a statement released by a Houthi military spokesperson, the vessel was completely destroyed following a precision strike involving ballistic missiles, three drones, and two remote-controlled boats.
The Houthis stated that the Magic Seas repeatedly violated a ban they imposed on vessels entering Israeli ports. The targeted ship, allegedly heading toward an Israeli-controlled port, was deemed a legitimate target as part of what the Houthis describe as their ongoing campaign in solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
“The Magic Seas was warned multiple times. It ignored our restrictions and aided Israeli aggression. We executed the operation as a deterrent,” the Houthi spokesperson said, adding that attacks will continue against all vessels affiliated with or en route to Israel until “Israeli aggression against Gaza ceases.”
According to Arab media, the incident took place near Yemeni waters, where a vessel registered under Liberia was attacked the previous day. That ship also reportedly came under fire from two small boats and was targeted with grenades, highlighting a growing pattern of maritime threats in the region.
International shipping authorities have expressed concern over escalating threats in the Red Sea, a vital corridor for global trade. While the Magic Seas’ ownership and cargo details remain under investigation, early reports suggest it was carrying commercial goods and had made prior stops at regional ports before entering waters near Yemen.
Israel has not officially responded to the latest attack, but military analysts warn that the incident could prompt retaliatory strikes or coordinated patrols in the Red Sea alongside U.S. naval forces already stationed in the area.
The Houthis, backed by Iran, have ramped up maritime attacks since the escalation of Israel-Gaza hostilities. Previous incidents included drone strikes, vessel seizures, and missile threats—all aimed at disrupting Israeli-linked shipping routes.
Global maritime insurers have begun revising coverage terms for vessels passing near the Bab-el-Mandeb strait, raising alarm within the international trade community about long-term safety in one of the world’s busiest waterways.
