On Friday, December 6, 2024, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported receiving notification of a maritime incident occurring 105 nautical miles northwest of Al Hodeidah, Yemen.

In a brief statement shared on platform X, seen by Barran Press, UKMTO indicated that a commercial vessel was moving in reverse and posed a danger to shipping in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The authority did not provide further details but noted that local authorities are currently investigating the incident.

Since October 2023, the Houthi movement, which is classified as a terrorist organization, has intensified its attacks with missiles and drones against commercial vessels in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Gulf of Aden. These assaults have led to increased marine insurance costs and prompted many international shipping companies to opt for significantly longer routes around the southern tip of Africa.

To deter Houthi threats and safeguard maritime navigation, the United States established a multinational coalition in December 2023, with U.S. forces occasionally conducting strikes against Houthi military targets.