Houthi Rebels Target Commercial Ship Carrying Corn to Iran: A Dangerous Escalation in the Red Sea

In a brazen act of aggression, Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeted the Star Iris, a commercial ship carrying corn from Brazil to Iran. The attack occurred in the early hours of February 13, 2024, approximately 40 nautical miles south of Al Mukha at the entrance to the Red Sea.

This latest incident is part of a series of assaults by the rebels on ships in the region, disrupting shipments through key waterways. The Star Iris was hit by missiles in two separate incidents, though fortunately, no casualties were reported, and the ship sustained only minor damage. It continues its journey to its next port of call.

The Houthi militia, known for their Iranian backing, have been escalating their attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The United States military confirmed the destination of the ship and identified its cargo as Brazilian corn bound for Iran.

The ongoing conflict in Yemen has cast a long shadow over international shipping in the region. Several leading shipping companies are now avoiding the area altogether due to the increasing number of attacks from the Iran-backed Houthi movement. The rebels claimed responsibility for the attack on the Star Iris, stating it was in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

The United States and British forces have responded with airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including weapon storage facilities and missile systems. As tensions continue to rise, the potential risks to international shipping remain a growing concern.

The attack on the Star Iris underscores the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict in Yemen. The increasing instability in the region not only threatens the safety of commercial shipping but also has far-reaching implications for global trade and security.

As the world watches the unfolding situation in Yemen, it is clear that a lasting solution must be found to restore stability and ensure the safe passage of ships through these vital waterways.

Key Points:

• Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeted a commercial ship carrying corn to Iran, the Star Iris.
• The attack occurred in the Red Sea, near the Yemeni port of Hodeidah, on February 13, 2024.
• No casualties were reported, and the ship sustained only minor damage.
• The Houthis, backed by Iran, have escalated their attacks on commercial shipping in the region.
• The ongoing conflict in Yemen poses risks to international shipping and global trade.

The Star Iris incident highlights the volatile nature of the region and the potential risks to international shipping. As the situation in Yemen remains unresolved, the world waits for a resolution that will restore stability and ensure the safe passage of ships through these critical waterways.

Tags: shipments, Yemen, Red Sea, Houthi, Gulf of Aden, commercial ship, Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Iran, corn, Brazil