A deadly wave of attacks by Houthi militants has struck two Greek-operated cargo vessels in the Red Sea, marking a dangerous escalation in maritime violence that threatens vital shipping routes.
According to the Daily Mail, the Iran-backed Houthi group released footage showing armed fighters storming and sinking the 650-foot Magic Seas vessel on Sunday, followed by another devastating attack on the Eternity C ship that left four crew members dead and 15 others missing.
The terror group's brazen assaults have sent shockwaves through the maritime industry and drawn swift condemnation from international authorities, who warn of mounting risks to commercial shipping in one of the world's most critical waterways.
Strategic Waterway Under Mounting Threat
The Red Sea route, which handles approximately 10% of global seaborne oil trade, has become increasingly perilous since Houthi rebels began targeting vessels in November 2023. Maritime security experts say traffic has dropped sharply as shipping companies seek alternate routes.
The US State Department condemned what it called "unprovoked Houthi terror attacks" and vowed to take necessary action to protect freedom of navigation. Spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized the ongoing threat posed by Iran-backed militants to regional economic and maritime security.
Leading shipping industry associations, including the International Chamber of Shipping and BIMCO, called for enhanced maritime security measures following the deadly incidents. In a joint statement, they decried the "callous disregard for innocent civilian seafarers."
Deadly Pattern of Maritime Violence
The attack on Magic Seas began when armed Houthi militants boarded the vessel and detonated explosives, causing it to sink. All 22 crew members were rescued by a passing merchant ship before the vessel went down.
The Eternity C suffered an even grimmer fate after being targeted multiple times over several days. Maritime officials confirmed four deaths, while six crew members were pulled from the water after more than 24 hours. The Houthis claim to have kidnapped surviving crew members.
These strikes revive a campaign that saw over 100 ships attacked between November 2023 and December 2024, which the militants say is in solidarity with Palestinians. A US-brokered deal in May briefly paused attacks but excluded vessels bound for Israel.
International Response and Economic Impact
Global shipping associations have united in condemning the attacks while calling for robust protection of vital sea lanes. The EU's Aspides naval mission confirmed involvement in rescue operations for the Eternity C incident.
The violence has already impacted global markets, with oil prices rising to their highest levels since June 2023. Industry analysts warn of potential further disruptions to international trade if attacks continue.
The Greek government has engaged in diplomatic talks with Saudi Arabia, a key regional player, regarding the latest incidents. Meanwhile, rescue efforts continue for the 15 missing Eternity C crew members.
Regional Security Implications Unfold
Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi doubled down on the group's position, declaring that no company would be permitted to transport Israel-related goods through designated areas. This stance threatens to further destabilize maritime commerce.
The attacks have highlighted vulnerabilities in international shipping security and raised concerns about Iran's role in supporting militant activities. Both targeted vessels had operated routes that included Israeli ports within the past year.
As rescue operations continue and investigations unfold, the international community faces mounting pressure to address this critical threat to global maritime security and commerce in one of the world's most strategically important waterways.
