The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the ship came under attack 51 nautical miles southwest of Hodeidah. According to reports, several small vessels targeted the ship using rocket-propelled grenades and automatic weapons. An onboard security team returned fire, but the vessel sustained heavy damage.

Security firm Ambrey later identified the ship as the Greek-owned Magic Seas and said it was struck by four unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), with two hitting the port side and damaging cargo.

Suspected Houthi Link

No group has formally claimed responsibility, but maritime analysts suggest the attack matches the profile of Houthi operations. Since November 2023, the Yemen-based group has carried out over 100 attacks on commercial vessels, citing support for Palestinians during the Gaza conflict.

A ceasefire agreement reached with the US in May 2025 paused attacks on American-linked ships, though Houthi leaders pledged to continue targeting Israeli-affiliated vessels. The group recently warned of renewed action after US-Israel operations in Iran.

Strategic And Economic Risks

The Red Sea shipping lane is one of the most important in the world. Houthi operations since late 2023 have forced major rerouting of global trade and drawn periodic military responses from the US and UK.

This latest attack occurs amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing discussions over ceasefire efforts in Gaza, as well as concerns about Iran’s nuclear program following recent airstrikes.