On October 1, two ships traveling in the Red Sea were attacked near Hodeidah, Yemen, marking the first attacks on merchant vessels in the region since September 2. These incidents follow an escalation in the Gaza conflict, particularly after the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
The first vessel affected was the crude oil tanker Cordelia Moon, which was en route from Russia to India. The ship’s captain reported observing four splashes near the vessel, approximately 64 nautical miles northwest of Al Hudaydah.
Source: UKMTO
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Center (UKMTO) identified these splashes as likely originating from missiles or drones aimed at the tanker. Subsequently, the UKMTO confirmed that the Cordelia Moon was struck by an uncrewed surface vessel, resulting in damage to its hull and puncturing ballast tank number 6 on the port side.
The second incident involved the bulk carrier Minoan Courage, which was hit by a missile around 97 nautical miles northwest of Hodeidah. The captain of the grain-carrying vessel reported that, despite the damage sustained, all crew members were safe.
As of now, the Houthi forces have not claimed responsibility for either attack.
