The Red Sea — through which about 12% of global trade flows — is again a geopolitical flashpoint.
A Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned bulk carrier, Magic Seas, was abandoned by its crew after sustaining heavy damage from a coordinated maritime assault southwest of Yemen’s Hodeida port.
According to United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the vessel was hit by small arms, rocket-propelled grenades, and two bomb-laden drone boats — marking a significant escalation in asymmetric naval warfare.
The attack bore the hallmarks of Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who later claimed credit for the attack, saying it was in support of Palestinians in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. .
Maritime security firm Ambrey confirmed the use of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), with two additional drones destroyed by the ship’s onboard security team.
The incident underscores the Houthis’ continued capacity to disrupt one of the world’s most critical trade arteries, despite intermittent ceasefires and international naval patrols.
The use of drone boats signals a tactical evolution in Houthi capabilities, raising insurance premiums, rerouting costs, and risk exposure for shipping and energy firms.
Investors with exposure to maritime logistics, MENA energy corridors, or defence contractors should monitor escalations risks.
