Reports indicate that the Greek operated, Maltese-flagged Bulk Carrier CYCLADES (IMO: 9799616) was attacked approximately 54NM Northwest of Al Mukha, Yemen. The vessel was targeted by at least three anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBMs) and three Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) while en route from Djibouti to Jeddah. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has confirmed that at least one explosion occurred near the merchant vessel. Further reports, including from the vessel's Company Security Officer, indicate that the vessel sustained damage from the incident.
The vessel and her crew are reported to be safe, with no injuries indicated, and are continuing to their next port of call.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on Monday that between 10:00 and 17:20 (Sanaa time), the Houthis fired three ASBMs and three UAVs from Yemen into the Red Sea, targeting the CYCLADES. CENTCOM also stated US forces had shot down a drone over the Red Sea on Monday as it was headed “on a flight path towards USS Philippine Sea and USS Laboon.”
The Houthi militants have since claimed responsibility for firing at the CYCLADES, MSC ORION and two additional US vessels. In a statement on social media, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the CYCLADES was targeted because it had docked in an Israeli port on April 21, and additional open-source reports also suggest the vessel was likely targeted due to her listed operator’s ongoing trade with Israel.
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