Iran-Backed Houthis Attack Andromeda Star Oil Tanker in Red Sea, Causing Minor Damage
On Saturday, Yemen's Houthis claimed responsibility for attacking the Andromeda Star oil tanker in the Red Sea using missiles.
The US Central Command confirmed that three anti-ship ballistic missiles were launched from Yemen, causing minor damage to the tanker.
The ship's master reported the damage, and a second vessel, the MV Maisha, was also targeted but remained unharmed.
The Andromeda Star is currently owned by a Seychelles-registered company and is engaged in Russia-linked trade.
The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, have been attacking commercial ships in the Red Sea in support of Palestinians fighting Israel in the Gaza war.
A shipping vessel, the Andromeda Star, was attacked in the Red Sea, causing concerns about the ongoing conflict between Iran-aligned Houthi militants and countries with ties to Israel, the US, and Britain.
The Houthis have been launching drone and missile strikes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November, forcing ships to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys.
The USS Dwight D.
Eisenhower aircraft carrier had previously assisted in protecting commercial shipping in the area.
The Houthis claimed responsibility for downing an American MQ-9 drone in Yemen's Saada province on the same day.