In a surprising turn of events, a Greek-owned bulk carrier flying the Marshall Islands flag was struck by missiles in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, as reported by Ambrey, a British maritime security firm.
The vessel, later identified as heading to Iran, suffered minor damage. This incident, highlighted by Reuters, raises concerns over maritime security in a crucial shipping lane.
The ship, Star Iris, was part of a regular trade operation, ferrying a corn shipment from Brazil to Iran. Data from Kpler suggests this route is a significant part of Iran’s corn import strategy, with Brazil being a key supplier.
Ambrey’s report suggests the attack might be linked to the vessel’s NASDAQ-listed owning group, hinting at a complex backdrop involving international trade and tensions.
Regional security sources speculate the attack could be demonstrating the Houthis’ autonomy from Iranian control, despite Tehran being informed beforehand.
This attack adds to a series of aggressive actions by Houthi militants against international shipping, underlining the escalating risks in the region.
The British Maritime Trade Operations confirmed the crew’s safety and the vessel’s continued journey, amidst a backdrop of heightened regional tensions and the Houthis’ stated retaliation for Israeli actions in Gaza.
