In a recent development, maritime authorities have reported that Houthi rebels have successfully sunk a ship carrying Russian cargo. The militants launched three anti-ship ballistic missiles which severely damaged the ship's engine. Fortunately, the entire crew was safely evacuated, officials have confirmed.

Following the attack, US forces took swift action and destroyed three launchers located in Yemen, as well as an unmanned aerial vehicle launched over the Red Sea. According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), multiple anti-ship cruise missile launchers were identified in Houthi-controlled regions of Yemen.

Details surrounding the attack, which took place on June 12, were revealed in a report by the UK Maritime Office. The report indicated that there were "indications that the vessel sank" sometime after the impact, although no casualties were reported.

This recent attack by the Houthis is part of a wider pattern of hostilities that have intensified since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The rebel group announced a further escalation of their operations at sea in May, referred to as the "fourth stage of escalation," aimed at supporting Gaza. This escalation included plans to target ships in the Mediterranean, Red and Arabian Seas, as well as the Indian Ocean. Despite a deal to avoid attacking commercial ships, vessels from various countries, including China, have been targeted.

To safeguard merchant and civilian ships in the seas around Yemen, US Central Command and UK forces have taken repeated military action, with a focus on the Gulf of Aden, a common launching point for Houthi missile attacks. In a similar move earlier this year, the US shot down five Houthi drones over the Red Sea, citing an "imminent threat" to regional safety. Despite these efforts, the Houthis remain a powerful force in Yemen, controlling a significant portion of the country, including the capital, Sanaa.

It is worth noting that Iran plays a substantial role in supplying weaponry and support to the Houthi rebels. Iran has been backing the group in its conflict against the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, which receives support from the US and the UK.

This recent attack on a Russian cargo ship by the Houthis highlights the ongoing security challenges in the Red Sea and underscores the need for continued international efforts to ensure the safety of maritime trade routes in the region.