PHOTO COURTESY: REUTERS/Khaled Abdullah
A cargo ship has been declared a constructive total loss after being struck by multiple unidentified projectiles off the coast of Yemen, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incident occurred about 40 nautical miles southeast of Al Mukha, adding to growing security concerns in the southern Red Sea.
UKMTO said local authorities reported the attack, while investigations are underway to determine the nature of the projectiles and identify those responsible. The vessel suffered damage considered too extensive to justify repairs compared with its insured value.
The incident comes amid renewed attacks around Yemen’s Red Sea coast. Recent violence has included strikes on commercial vessels near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a key maritime passage connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.
The latest attack highlights the continuing risks faced by merchant vessels operating in the region. Shipping operators and maritime authorities are expected to maintain heightened security measures as tensions around Yemen continue to threaten commercial traffic through one of the world’s major shipping routes.