Attack on Bulk Carrier in Red Sea Claims Lives of Two Seafarers

A recent attack off the coast of Yemen has left two seafarers dead on the Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated bulk carrier Eternity C, according to statements made by Liberia’s shipping delegation at a United Nations meeting. This distressing event is the first involving shipping in the Red Sea since June 2024 and has ignited concerns about the resurgence of hostilities in a critical waterway that has seen reduced traffic due to threats from the Houthi militia.

The Red Sea, a vital route for global oil and commodity shipments, has faced significant disruptions since the Houthis began targeting vessels in late 2023, claiming their attacks were in solidarity with Palestinians amid the conflict in Gaza. The death toll from recent attacks on shipping in this area has now reached six seafarers.

Just hours before the attack on the Eternity C, the Houthis had taken responsibility for the attack on another vessel, the MV Magic Seas, which allegedly sank after being struck near Yemen. However, the claim about the vessel’s sinking remains unverified, although all crew members were safely rescued and transported to Djibouti.

Liberia’s maritime delegation expressed deep grief over the string of attacks, noting the attack on the Eternity C occurred shortly after the news about the Magic Seas incident. Since the Houthi militia initiated their attacks, they have reportedly launched hundreds of drones and missiles against vessels deemed connected to Israel, raising alarms over safety and freedom of navigation in the region.

Arsenio Dominguez, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, condemned these renewed attacks, stating they represent a serious violation of international law that endangers innocent seafarers and local communities. The vulnerabilities of trade routes are further exacerbated by the lingering risk presented by the Houthis, who have declared their intentions to continue their operations as long as tensions in Gaza persist.

Amidst these developments, it has been noted that both the attacked ships had previous affiliations with Israeli ports. Experts suggest that, despite a lull in Houthi activity, the intent to target vessels remains unchanged, especially during prolonged geopolitical conflicts. In light of these attacks, the Philippines' Department of Migrant Workers has advised Filipino seafarers to reconsider sailing in high-risk areas like the Red Sea.

Overall, shipping traffic in the region has diminished significantly, with reports indicating around a 50% decrease since the initial Houthi attacks began at the end of 2023. The ongoing unpredictability surrounding security conditions means that significant changes in shipping routes are unlikely at this time. The latest incident on the Eternity C occurred approximately 50 nautical miles from the Yemeni port of Hodeidah and marks a troubling continuation of hostility in a historically critical maritime region.