Houthis Strike Oil Tanker Bound for China

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels targeted the M/T Wind, a Panamanian-flagged oil tanker owned and operated by Greek entities, with an anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) in the Red Sea.

The vessel, which had most recently departed from Russia and was en route to China, faced the attack while navigating through the region.

Initially reported by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) as positioned 76 nautical miles northwest of Al Hudaydah, Yemen, the vessel's location was later corrected to 98 miles south of the same port city. The impact of the ASBM caused flooding aboard the M/T Wind, leading to the loss of propulsion and steering capabilities.

Prompt response to the distress call was provided by a coalition vessel, although no external assistance was required. The crew aboard the M/T Wind managed to restore both propulsion and steering systems independently, with no reported casualties. Consequently, the vessel resumed its course under its own power, as confirmed by the U.S. CENTCOM.

While reports initially suggested a fire aboard the vessel, British security firm Ambrey indicated that the fire was contained within the steering gear, with one steering unit reportedly functional.

The M/T Wind, originating from Novorossiysk, Russia, has a history linked to the transportation of both Russian and Venezuelan crude oil, although the motive behind the attack remains unclear. Despite the absence of apparent connections to Israel, the United States, or the United Kingdom, which the Houthis have previously declared as targets, the rebel group's leader reiterated threats against shipping linked to Israel, citing unconfirmed attacks on the nation.

This incident follows previous Houthi attacks in April on two tankers, the Andromeda Star and the Maisha, resulting in minor damage to the former vessel. The Andromeda Star, registered in Panama, had been sold months earlier by its UK owners to a company based in the Seychelles.