Houthi Attack on Greek Ship; CENTCOM Reports Minor Damage to Vessel and Crew Injuries

The United States Central Command announced that Iran-backed Houthis targeted a Greek cargo ship on Sunday, July 3, 'probably with a drone,' causing minor damage to the vessel and injuries to its crew. According to CENTCOM, the ship, named 'Trans World Navigator,' was en route from Malaysia to Egypt under the Liberian flag. The report states that despite the damage to the hull and injuries to some crew members, the ship continued on its course. CENTCOM stated that the continuation of this 'malicious and reckless' behavior by the Iran-backed Houthis threatens regional stability and endangers the lives of sailors in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The U.S. military also emphasized that it will continue to work with its allies to reduce the military capabilities of the Houthi insurgents in Yemen and hold them accountable for their actions. The Houthis, who control parts of Yemen, began attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, claiming to support the Palestinians. However, evidence has shown that the attacks by this Iran-backed group have disrupted free maritime trade, increased shipping costs, and ultimately raised prices for global consumers. The current U.S. administration, which had removed the Houthis from the list of terrorist organizations at the beginning of Joe Biden's presidency, placed the rebel group back on the 'specially designated global terrorists' list on February 16. The British newspaper Telegraph reported on January 9, 2024, citing intelligence sources within Iran, that the Houthis have been trained at the 'Khamenei Marine Science and Technology University' in Ziba Kenar, Rasht, and that Ali Khamenei personally oversees their activities. Houthi militants claimed a drone attack on four ships at Haifa port. Another attack by Iran-backed Houthis on a ship in the Gulf of Aden. The U.S. military and coalition forces confronted the Houthi militants, destroying nine drones. The United States sanctioned several Houthi arms supply networks. The crew of the 'Verbena' ship was rescued; CENTCOM stated that the 'Jamaran' frigate did not respond to their request for help. The crew of the Greek ship attacked by the Houthis was evacuated; one person is missing.