A cargo ship struck by a Houthi ballistic missile in the Red Sea is leaking oil, creating an 18-mile-long slick, as it takes on water. The vessel, M/V Rubymar, carrying 41,000 tons of fertilizer, was targeted from Houthi territory in Yemen. US Central Command expressed concern over the regional impact of such attacks, endangering fishing industries and food imports.
Due to the threat of further Houthi assaults and hazardous water conditions, accessing the damaged ship for towing is challenging. This incident marks one of the most significant attacks by the Houthis on commercial shipping in the region.
The substance causing the oil slick remains unidentified, posing environmental risks. Following the attack, the Rubymar sent a distress call and was assisted by a coalition warship and another merchant vessel, evacuating its crew to a nearby port, a rare occurrence after a Houthi strike.
Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh highlighted the environmental danger posed by the ship, laden with fuel and fertilizer, and criticized the Houthis for creating hazards in their own region. Despite efforts by the Biden administration to curb Houthi attacks, the group persists in fortifying its arsenal inside Yemen.
The Houthis claim their attacks target ships associated with Israel, but many vessels hit, like the US-owned M/V Sea Champion, were delivering humanitarian aid to Yemen. Such actions exacerbate international tensions and disrupt aid delivery, as opposed to supporting the Palestinian cause as claimed.
As concerns mount over escalating Houthi assaults and their impact on regional stability, efforts to mitigate further incidents and protect vital maritime routes intensify.
