An alarming incident unfolded in the Red Sea as a British oil tanker, the MV Merlin Luanda, became engulfed in flames following an alleged missile strike by Houthi rebels off the coast of Yemen. Onboard were 22 Indian and 1 Bangladeshi crew members, prompting swift action from the Indian Navy.
Responding to a distress call late Friday night, the Indian Navy's INS Visakhapatnam, stationed in the Gulf of Aden, dispatched a team to assist in firefighting efforts aboard the stricken vessel. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties despite the intense blaze sparked by what is believed to be a Houthi anti-ship missile.
This incident adds to a string of attacks attributed to the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group in the strategically vital Gulf of Aden. Recent reports indicate that the MV Merlin Luanda was targeted by Houthi insurgents, heightening concerns over maritime security in the region.
Notably, this marks the first direct assault on a US warship by the Houthis since their campaign against shipping began several months ago, underscoring the escalating tensions in the area.
In response to the distress call from the MV Merlin Luanda, INS Visakhapatnam swiftly mobilized its firefighting unit to aid the crew in combating the flames. Additionally, the US military, along with coalition ships, provided assistance to the stricken tanker.
Following the attack, the US military intercepted and destroyed a Houthi anti-ship missile aimed at the Red Sea, averting further potential threats to maritime traffic. However, conflicting reports emerged regarding airstrikes allegedly carried out by the US and UK targeting Yemen's main oil export terminal, Ras Issa, underscoring the complex nature of the situation.
As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the attack on the MV Merlin Luanda, concerns persist over the safety of vessels navigating the Red Sea amidst ongoing regional tensions.
Houthi Rebels Target Trafigura-Operated Oil Tanker in Red Sea
Yemen's Houthi Rebels Target US Warship, Escalating Middle East Sea Conflict
Beijing Intensifies Military Pressure on Taiwan Amidst US-China Talks