Two sailors were killed in a missile strike on a cargo ship in the Red Sea, prompting the White House to call on governments worldwide to join efforts in stopping Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from attacking commercial vessels in the Middle East. The attack occurred on Wednesday when missiles fired by the terrorist group hit the Barbados-flagged, Liberian-owned bulk carrier True Confidence as it was passing through the Gulf of Aden.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre expressed her condolences to the families of the victims and condemned the reckless attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis. She emphasized that these attacks not only disrupt global trade and commerce but also claim the lives of innocent seafarers who are simply doing their jobs. The White House is urging countries around the world to join the United States in putting an end to these appalling attacks.
The attack resulted in three fatalities and at least four injuries, with three individuals in critical condition. The ship sustained severe damage and had to be evacuated, leaving it drifting in the sea. The U.S. and Indian Navy vessels are currently on the scene, assisting in rescue efforts.
This is not the first time the Houthi rebels have targeted ships in the Red Sea and its surrounding waters. In response, the U.S. and the U.K. have launched self-defense airstrikes against Houthi targets within Yemeni territory. The Houthis claim that their attack on the True Confidence was carried out in retaliation to American and British aggression against their country.
The U.S. Central Command reported that this is the fifth anti-ship ballistic missile fired by the Houthis in the past two days. Two missiles hit shipping vessels, including the MSC Sky II and True Confidence, while a third missile was intercepted by the USS Carney. Earlier in March, the United Kingdom-owned M/V Rubymar sank in the Red Sea after being struck by a Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile.
The damage sustained to the undersea cables in the Red Sea is believed to be a result of the Houthi attack on the M/V Rubymar. This incident not only forced the crew to abandon ship but also cut the undersea cables that provide internet and telecommunications service worldwide. Ongoing Houthi attacks have also hindered repair efforts.
The situation in the Red Sea remains precarious, with innocent lives at risk and global trade disrupted. The United States is calling on governments worldwide to stand against the Houthis and work together to prevent further attacks on commercial shipping. The safety of seafarers and the stability of international trade depend on a united front against these terrorist actions.
