Liberia-Flagged Tanker Olympic Spirit Attacked by Houthi Militants in Red Sea
A Liberia-flagged tanker, the Olympic Spirit, was attacked twice with missiles and drones in the Red Sea on Thursday morning, with the Iranian-aligned Houthi militants claiming responsibility for the incident. The tanker was struck approximately 73 nautical miles (135 kilometers) southwest of the Yemeni port of Hodeidah while traveling from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to Muscat, Oman.
The first projectile hit the bridge on the starboard side of the vessel, causing minor damage. About four hours later, two additional projectiles detonated within 0,27 nautical miles of the ship’s port side.

According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations agency, the captain of the Olympic Spirit did not report any fires or casualties on board. A maritime security source indicated that while the ship sustained some technical issues, it remained seaworthy and continued its journey, with all crew members safe.
Later on Thursday, the Houthi movement claimed that they had launched 11 ballistic missiles and two drones at the Olympic Spirit. They also mentioned targeting another vessel, identified as the St. John in the Indian Ocean, as part of their broader attacks on global shipping in response to Israel’s conflict in Gaza. The Houthi fighters have conducted nearly 100 attacks on ships crossing the Red Sea since November, stating that these actions are in solidarity with Palestinians during Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. They have reportedly sunk two vessels, seized another, and killed at least four seafarers in these assaults.