Navigating Uncertainty: Norwegian Tanker Attacked in Red Sea
It's been a tense situation off the coast of Yemen, as reports of a missile attack on a tanker fly under the Norwegian flag have surfaced. The US military has reported the incident, suggesting a cruise missile from the Houthi rebels, tensions with Israel escalating, might be the culprit. But here's the twist – it's still unclear if the tanker, dubbed "Strinda," has any connection to Israel.
According to US Central Command Centcom, the "Strinda" was hit while passing through the strait between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The missile strike caused damage and a fire, leaving no casualties, as confirmed by two US defense officials speaking to Reuters news agency. The attack occurred approximately 60 nautical miles north of the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, are suspected of launching the attack from their controlled area. After the incident, the Norwegian-flagged "Strinda" issued a distress call, prompting a US warship to rush to the aid of the vessel. Despite the damage, the tanker was able to continue its journey under its own power.
The "Strinda" had been carrying vegetable oil and biofuels, following a journey from Malaysia, with Venice as its final destination. The owners, Mowinckel Chemical Tankers, and managers, Hansa Tankers, haven't yet commented on the incident.
The Houthis had previously issued a warning to attack all vessels with ties to Israel, in response to Israel's military actions against the Islamist Hamas in the Gaza Strip. With numerous reported attacks on merchant ships, including those with possible Israeli connections, the situation in the Red Sea is increasingly fraught with danger.
Insight: The incident is a part of the ongoing Red Sea crisis, where the Houthis have been targeting various vessels perceived as linked to Israel. It is crucial to remain vigilant in this uncertain environment.
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Additional Insight: The Norwegian tanker, "Strinda," was reportedly hit by an anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) launched by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea on December 12, 2023, according to the Crisis Group and other sources. The incident is part of a larger conflict involving the Houthis, Iran, Israel, and international actors, with the Houthis aiming to halt Israeli activities in the Gaza Strip. It is unclear if the "Strinda" had any direct connection to Israel, although the Houthis target any ships they perceive as linked to Israel, suggesting vessels in the region could be at risk.
