Barran Press
The Combined Maritime Forces Information Center for the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden reported on Monday, July 8, 2024, that the cargo ship "Verbena," flying the flag of Palau, has been towed away from the danger zone and is now en route to its next port of call, according to Reuters.
The "Verbena" was attacked on June 13, 2024. The Houthi group, internationally designated as a terrorist organization, subsequently claimed responsibility for the attack.
The center clarified that the ship was targeted with three missiles while transiting the Gulf of Aden, 98 nautical miles east of the Yemeni city of Aden. It added that the cargo ship caught fire as a result of the Houthi attack, and the crew was unable to extinguish the blaze.
The U.S. Central Command confirmed that the ship was subsequently flooded after the crew was rescued and brought to safety. They also reported that one crew member sustained injuries during the attack.
Since November 2023, the Houthi group has continued its attacks using missiles and drones against commercial cargo ships in the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Aden.
The group's attacks have led to increased maritime insurance costs and prompted many international shipping companies to opt for the significantly longer route around the southern tip of the African continent.
To deter the Houthis and protect maritime navigation, the United States formed a multinational coalition in December 2023. U.S. forces have been conducting periodic strikes against Houthi military targets.