Iranian-Backed Houthis Attack Russian Oil Tanker in Red Sea: US Central Command

The Iranian-backed Houthis have targeted the M/T Wind tanker carrying Russian oil in the Red Sea. The attack took place at approximately 1 a.m. on May 18. The anti-ship missile launched by the Houthis hit the Panamanian-flagged, Greek owned and operated vessel, causing flooding and damage to the steering gear compartment. However, there were no casualties reported. The US Central Command confirmed the incident.

The M/T Wind, which was loaded with Russian oil at the Sheskharis terminal in Novorossiysk, was en route to deliver the raw materials to China when it was ambushed by the Houthis. The attack occurred about 10 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s Red Sea port city of Mokha. The British security firm Ambrey stated that the missile caused a fire in the steering gear compartment. The US-led coalition vessel swiftly responded to the distress call, and the crew managed to restore propulsion and steering, allowing the tanker to continue its course under its own power.

This incident highlights the disruptive effect of sabotage and attacks by the Houthis on transit routes in the Red Sea. As a result of such disruptions, global shipping has been impacted, leading to the need for transportation companies to resort to longer and more expensive routes around South Africa. This logistical complication is expected to drive up global oil prices and subsequently increase fuel prices.

Sources: US Central Command, Reuters, Ambrey

ملخص الأخبار

• The attack occurred at approximately 1 a.m. Sanaa time on May 18.
• The anti-ship missile caused flooding, resulting in the loss of propulsion and steering on the M/T Wind.
• M/T Wind, loaded with Russian oil in Novorossiysk, was en route to deliver the cargo to China.
• Houthi attacks in the Red Sea have disrupted global shipping, leading to increased logistical challenges and potentially higher oil and fuel prices.