Incident Overview
An oil tanker named Marlin Luanda is on fire in the Gulf of Aden.
Houthi rebels claim responsibility, stating they targeted the tanker with a missile.
The operator of the tanker, Trafigura, confirms the missile strike, causing a fire in one cargo tank.
Response and Safety Measures
Firefighting equipment is being used to control the fire.
The safety of the crew is the top priority.
No injuries have been reported.
Confirmation by US Officials
US officials report that the tanker was hit by an anti-ship ballistic missile.
Naval Response
A naval ship is responding to the distress signal.
The incident occurred 60 nautical miles southeast of Aden.
Confirmation by UK Maritime Trade Operations
UKMTO confirms that warships are supporting the vessel.
All crew members are reported safe.
US Central Command Action
US Central Command states that a strike was conducted against a Houthi anti-ship missile to prevent its launch into the Red Sea.
Trafigura’s Involvement
Trafigura remains in contact with the vessel.
They are closely monitoring the situation.
Context of Houthi Attacks
This incident is part of a series of Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in and around the Red Sea.
Houthi attacks on vessels have escalated since November, expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
International Response
The US and UK have launched airstrikes in response to Houthi attacks.
Sanctions are being imposed to cut off Houthi financial resources.
Warning and Confirmation by Houthi Military Spokesman
UKMTO warns other vessels to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity in the region.
Houthi military spokesman Yaha Sarea confirms the use of naval missiles, describing the strike as “direct.”
Details about the Tanker
The Marlin Luanda oil tanker is flagged with the Marshall Islands.
Overall Escalation
Houthi attacks on shipping have escalated, prompting increased international responses.