The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has reported an attack on a Marshall Islands-flagged Bulk Carrier, STAR IRIS (IMO: 9284910), approximately 40NM South of Al Mukha, Yemen. According to reports from the Master of the vessel, the ship was attacked by two missiles. The UKMTO has also confirmed that the vessel sustained minor damage as a result of the attack.
The crew is reported to be safe and the vessel is continuing to her next port of call. The exact position of the incident has not been released, but an investigation is currently underway.
STAR IRIS is owned by Athens-headquartered, NASDAQ listed Star Bulk Carriers, and is the second Star Bulk vessel to be targeted by the Houthis in a week. On February 6, Houthis attacked the STAR NASIA, which reported that an explosion near the ship had caused minor damage but that it was proceeding on its voyage.
A report by Reuters cited sources stating the STAR IRIS had reportedly suffered damage to its Starboard side. Reuters cites both Ambrey and analytics group Kpler as saying that the vessel was reportedly headed to Bandar Imam Khomeini, one of Iran’s biggest ports and a major grains terminal.
The Castor Vali team will continue to provide updates and analysis to support informed decision-making in navigating these waters.
Vessels are advised to proceed with caution and report any suspicious activities to the UKMTO.
|