Red Sea Crisis: Houthi Attacks Sink Ships, Kill Crew Global Shipping in Peril, Watch Video

Key Points

• Four crew members killed in a Houthi attack on the Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned bulk carrier Eternity C in the Red Sea.
• Magic Seas, another Greek-owned vessel, was attacked, boarded, and later sank after a coordinated assault by Houthi rebels.
• These are the first fatalities among merchant ship crews in the Red Sea since June 2024, marking a dangerous escalation.
• Drones, missiles, and speedboats were used in both attacks, with video evidence released by the Houthis.
• The EU, US, and Yemen’s exiled government blame the Houthis, who have not formally claimed responsibility for Eternity C.
• The attacks threaten global commerce, regional stability, and freedom of navigation in a vital shipping corridor.

New Delhi: Yemen’s Houthi rebels have reignited their campaign of attacks against international shipping in the Red Sea, launching two deadly assaults in as many days that have left the global maritime community on edge. The violence has shattered a months-long lull and raised fears of renewed disruption in one of the world’s most critical trade arteries.

Deadly Strike on Eternity C: Four Crew Killed

On Monday night, the Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated bulk carrier Eternity C was attacked off the coast of Yemen near Hodeidah. The assault involved explosive-laden drones, speedboats carrying armed men, and rocket-propelled grenades. The ship’s security team returned fire, but the vessel suffered catastrophic damage to its bridge and engine room, rendering it adrift and unmanageable.

• Casualties: Four seafarers were killed, including Filipino and Russian crew members. At least two others were seriously injured, with one reportedly losing a leg.
• Crew Trapped: The remaining crew, including security personnel, were left stranded as the ship drifted uncontrollably in the Red Sea.
• No Claim of Responsibility: While the Houthis have not formally claimed the attack, EU naval forces, Yemen’s exiled government, and the US Embassy have all attributed blame to the group.

Magic Seas Sunk: Dramatic Assault Captured on Video

Just a day earlier, the Magic Seas another Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned bulk carrier was targeted in a highly coordinated attack. Eight speedboats carrying armed men, four unmanned surface vessels (USVs) loaded with explosives, and at least three anti-ship missiles were used in the assault.

• Evacuation: The 22-member crew was forced to abandon ship after the vessel was struck multiple times and began to sink.
• Video Released: The Houthis released dramatic footage showing militants hailing the ship over radio, boarding it with guns drawn, and ultimately detonating explosives that sent the vessel to the bottom of the sea.
• First Sinking of 2025: This marks the first sinking of a commercial vessel in the Red Sea this year, signaling a severe escalation in tactics.

Escalation and International Response

These attacks break a period of relative calm in the Red Sea and come amid increased shipping traffic through the region. The European Union, United States, and other international actors have condemned the violence, warning of dire consequences for global commerce and regional security.

• EU Condemnation: The EU described the attacks as a “serious escalation endangering maritime security in a vital waterway for the region and the world,” and called for an immediate cessation of Houthi attacks.
• Global Shipping at Risk: The Red Sea is a critical route for oil, gas, and goods, with an estimated $1 trillion in annual trade passing through its waters.
• Potential for Wider Conflict: The renewed Houthi campaign, coupled with Israeli air strikes on rebel positions, raises the risk of broader military involvement by US and Western forces.

Timeline of Recent Incidents

What’s Next?

• Rescue and Recovery: Efforts continue to assist stranded crew and recover the damaged vessels.
• Heightened Security: The EU and allied navies are increasing patrols and security measures for ships transiting the Red Sea.
• Calls for Accountability: International organizations demand an end to attacks and greater protection for seafarers and global trade.