The Red Sea, known for its strategic importance in international trade, recently witnessed a significant event. Yemen’s Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for a missile strike on the Andromeda Star, an oil tanker en route to India. This incident marks a critical development in the ongoing tension in the Middle East and raises concerns over the security of commercial shipping in the region.

Incident Overview: Houthi Attack Oil Tanker

On April 27, 2024, the hostilities from Yemen stated that their missiles had successfully sank the Andromeda Star oil tanker in the Red Sea. This attack is part of their continued efforts to disrupt commercial shipping in the area.

It is believed that the attack on the Andromeda Star is a gesture of solidarity with the Palestinians who are fighting Israel in the Gaza conflict. The Andromeda Star sustain minor damage as three Yemeni anti-ship ballistic missiles were fire into the Red Sea, according to the US Central Command, confirming the Houthi’s assertion. 

The Targeted Vessel: Andromeda Star

The Andromeda Star is a Panama-flagged oil tanker. Initially, it was report to be British-owned. However, new shipping records and reports from the British maritime security company Ambrey show that the tanker was probably just sold.

The person who now owns the boat is register in Seychelles. At the time of the attack, the oil ship was trading with Russia, going from Primorsk, Russia, to Vadinar, India. 

The Houthi Campaign: Houthis Attack in Red Sea

Since November, Houthi rebels who are friendly with Iran have been attacking with drones and missiles in the Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the Gulf of Aden. Because of these attacks, shippers have had to reroute their goods on longer, more expensive routes around southern Africa. 

Concerns have grown that the Middle East could become even less stable as the conflict between Israel and Hamas gets worse. Although there was a short break in the Houthi’s campaign, which targets ships with ties to Israel, the US, and Britain, they attacked the Andromeda Star. 

International Response and Aftermath

As things worsened, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier left the Red Sea through the Suez Canal. It had been helping an alliance led by the US to protect commercial ships.

The Houthis said they shot down an American MQ-9 drone in Yemen’s Saada province on the same day as the attack on the Andromeda Star. The event is yet another sign of how tense things are in the area.

Impact on International Trade: Red Sea Houthis Attack

The Houthi’s continuous strikes are causing significant disruptions to international trade. The Red Sea is a major route for oil and cargo ships. The attacks threaten the crew’s safety onboard these vessels and increase shipping costs due to rerouting.

Furthermore, targeting commercial ships could escalate international tensions and lead to a more significant conflict. Thus, the international community needs to address this issue urgently to ensure the safety and security of shipping routes.

Looking Ahead: Houthi

The Andromeda Star, Houthi attack oil tanker incident, has shed light on the urgent need for improved security for commercial ships passing through conflict zones. As the Houthi attacks continue, international powers must come together to address the situation and ensure the safe passage of vessels in the Red Sea.

The Houthi’s strike on the Andromeda Star is an alarming reminder of the volatile situation in the Middle East. The international community must work collaboratively to prevent further attacks and protect the integrity of essential trade routes.

The Houthi attack on the Andromeda Star in the Red Sea highlights commercial shipping challenges in contentious regions. With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East showing no signs of abating, shippers must remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions. Meanwhile, international powers must redouble their efforts to ensure the safety and security of vital sea routes.