A UK-owned cargo ship targeted by Houthi rebels has sunk in the Red Sea, Yemen’s government confirmed on February 18. The Rubymar was carrying 41,000 tonnes of fertiliser when it was attacked, leading to an oil slick in the southern Red Sea. This marks the first vessel lost since the Houthis began targeting commercial shipping in November.
The attacks on ships have disrupted international trade on the shortest route between Europe and Asia, forcing vessels to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope. In response, the US and UK have launched strikes against targets in Yemen, with the US designating the Houthis as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist entity.
These attacks and counter-attacks come amidst Israel’s war on Gaza, raising fears of further destabilising the Middle East. As tensions escalate, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to these acts of aggression. Stay tuned to Bio Prep Watch for the latest updates on this developing situation.
