Washington: Iran-backed Yemeni Houthi rebels targeted an oil tanker, the Marlin Luanda, operated by Trafigura, in the Red Sea. The missile strike caused a fire in one of the ship's cargo tanks. Despite the attack, no injuries were reported, and firefighting equipment was used to contain the fire. The oil tanker, flying the flag of the Marshall Islands, was carrying Russian naphtha purchased below the price cap in line with G7 sanctions. The United States military stated that the Houthi rebels hit the vessel with an anti-ship ballistic missile. In response, US forces conducted a strike to destroy a Houthi anti-ship missile aimed into the Red Sea.

The attack on the Marlin Luanda occurred approximately 60 nautical miles southeast of Aden, as reported by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The UKMTO received a distress signal and reported that "a vessel has been struck by a missile and remains on fire." Coalition Warships were reported to be in attendance and supporting the vessel. The Houthi rebels, who have primarily targeted container vessels in the Red Sea, claim that their attacks on vessels are in support of Palestinians, responding to Israel’s operation in Gaza.

Trafigura, the company operating the oil tanker, confirmed the missile strike and subsequent fire. Meanwhile, the US Central Command stated that their forces conducted a strike in self-defense against a Houthi anti-ship missile that was prepared to launch. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions and security risks in the region due to the conflict involving Houthi rebels and their attacks on maritime traffic in the Red Sea.

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