Abandoned Cargo Ship in Red Sea Faces Uncertain Fate
Abandoned Ship Still Afloat Despite Missile Attack
A cargo ship abandoned in the Gulf of Aden after being hit by missiles fired by Yemen’s Houthis is still afloat, despite taking in water. Industry sources suggest it could be towed to nearby Djibouti.
Escalating Shipping Risks in the Red Sea
Shipping risks have increased due to repeated drone and missile strikes in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait by the Iran-aligned Houthis since November. U.S. and British forces have responded with several strikes on Houthi facilities but have so far failed to halt the attacks.
Rescue and Repairs
The crew of the Belize-flagged Rubymar abandoned the vessel after it was hit and were rescued by another commercial ship. The vessel’s operators are exploring options for its recovery.
Towing the Vessel to Safety
Two shipping and insurance sources suggest that towing the vessel to Djibouti appears to be the best course of action. It is considered too risky for the ship to be towed too far or into more open waters in its current condition.
Challenges and Uncertainty
The vessel, carrying fertilizer, last reported its position over two days ago and was headed to the Bulgarian port of Varna. Insurance sources are unable to determine who had insured the vessel, and it appears not to be covered through the London marine insurance market.
Heightened Safety Concerns
Despite retaliatory Western attacks on them in Yemen, the Houthis have vowed to continue striking ships they say are linked to Israel, leading to growing safety fears among maritime operators.
Reports of Explosions near Hodeidah Port
The UKMTO British navy agency received reports of an explosion and a flash sighted in the southern Red Sea near Yemen’s northern Hodeidah port, which is controlled by the Houthis. Vessels and crew in the vicinity are reported safe but are advised to transit with caution.
