In a series of escalating maritime confrontations, Houthi forces have attacked and sunk the Liberian-flagged cargo ship Eternity C in the Red Sea, resulting in the deaths of at least four crew members and leaving several others missing. The attack, which began on Monday and continued into Tuesday, involved rocket-propelled grenades and sea drones launched from speedboats, according to maritime security sources.

The Eternity C, operated by a Greek firm, was carrying 25 crew members, predominantly Filipinos, when it was targeted. The Houthis, an Iran-backed group based in Yemen, claimed responsibility, asserting the vessel was en route to Israel. This attack marks the second such incident in a week, following the sinking of another Liberian-flagged ship, Magic Seas, under similar circumstances.

Rescue Efforts and International Response

Rescue operations have successfully saved seven crew members who endured over 24 hours in the water. However, the fate of the remaining crew remains uncertain, with fears that some may have been kidnapped by the Houthis. The US embassy in Yemen has called for the immediate release of any detained crew members.

The attacks have drawn sharp condemnation from the United States and the European Union, both emphasizing the threat posed to freedom of navigation in the region. The EU's naval mission, Operation Aspides, is actively participating in the international response to these incidents.

Broader Context and Implications

The Houthis have justified their actions as a show of solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Since November 2023, they have targeted approximately 70 merchant vessels, claiming to focus on those linked to Israel, the US, or the UK.

These maritime attacks coincide with broader geopolitical tensions, including a recent ceasefire breakdown in Gaza and US military actions in Yemen. The Houthis have previously threatened to resume attacks on Israeli-affiliated ships, particularly if provoked by US actions against Iran.