Title: Yemen’s Houthi Group Claims Responsibility for Missile Attack on Norwegian Tanker amid Israel-Gaza Conflict
In a volatile development surrounding the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, Yemen’s Houthi group has claimed responsibility for targeting a Norwegian commercial tanker with a missile as a form of protest against Israel’s bombardment of Gaza. The incident, which has led to escalating tensions in the region, prompted significant responses from various nations and naval forces.
Named STRINDA, the tanker allegedly intended to transport crude oil to an Israeli terminal, according to Yehia Sarea, a military spokesperson for the Houthi group. However, Norway’s Mowinckel Chemical Tankers, the vessel’s owner, contradicted the claims, stating that the STRINDA was en route to Italy carrying a cargo of biofuel feedstock.
Israel promptly responded to the attack by deploying a Sa’ar 6 class corvette in the Red Sea. In a fortunate turn of events, the U.S. Navy destroyer Mason received distress calls from the STRINDA and came to the crew’s aid as they dealt with a fire ignited by the missile strike.
The Houthi group, known for its involvement in the Israel-Hamas conflict, has been targeting vessels in crucial shipping lanes and launching missiles and drones at Israel from Yemen. Furthermore, the conflict’s effects have spread to other parts of the region, drawing Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Iranian-backed militias into the fray.
Aiming to ensure the tanker’s safety, a French frigate intercepted and destroyed a drone that posed a potential threat to the STRINDA. Ship-tracking data indicates that the vessel was carrying vegetable oil and biofuels from Malaysia to Venice, refuting claims made by the Houthi group.
As part of the Houthi group’s efforts to pressure Israel, they have vowed to block ships destined for Israeli ports until the nation allows food and medical aid into the Gaza Strip. Norway has denounced the attack on civilian shipping, while the United States promptly responded to the STRINDA’s distress call, underlining their commitment to maintaining stability in the region.
In recent days, the Houthi group has been obstructing the passage of several ships in solidarity with the Palestinians, sparking condemnation from the international community. The United States and Britain have blamed Iran for supporting the Houthi rebels and their alleged attacks on shipping, while Saudi Arabia has called for restraint in response to the escalating attacks.
As tensions ratchet up in the region, the world watches with bated breath, hopeful for a resolution that will bring peace and stability to the Middle East.
