On 9/7/2025, Yahya Saree, a spokesperson for the Houthi armed group in Yemen, claimed responsibility for the attack on the cargo ship Eternity C in the Red Sea. The ship was en route to the Israeli port of Eliat. Saree stated the attack was in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Saree warned that all ships and sailors using Israeli ports would be targeted until Israel lifts the blockade and ends its operations in Gaza. He said the attack involved a drone, six cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles.
A video released by Al Masirah shows missiles striking the Eternity C's cargo hold near the superstructure, causing significant damage and breaching the bridge. Two more holes are visible near the waterline. A life raft and a speedboat are seen nearby as the ship sinks.
Saree claimed Houthi forces "rescued some crew members, provided medical assistance, and transported them to safety". However, the US embassy in Yemen accused the group of abducting sailors not rescued by Western navies. "After killing crew members, sinking the ship, and hindering rescue efforts, Houthi forces abducted surviving sailors from the Eternity C. We demand their immediate and unconditional release," the embassy posted on X.
On 9/7/2025, Reuters, citing maritime officials, reported 4 of the 25 crew members died before the others abandoned ship. The European Union Naval Force Somalia – Operation ATALANTA (EU NAVFOR) told AFP that five Filipinos and one Indian national were rescued, while 19 others remained missing.
The Houthi group also claimed responsibility for the 7/7/2025 attack on the cargo ship Magic Seas in the Red Sea. That attack resulted in the sinking of the Magic Seas, with all crew members rescued by a passing cargo ship and taken to Djibouti.
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Location of the Red Sea. Graphics: Wikimedia |
The Houthi group declared the ship a "legitimate target" for doing business with and using Israeli ports.
Houthi attacks on Israeli territory and ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden began after the 2023 Gaza conflict, demonstrating support for Palestinians.
In response, the Israeli military has conducted airstrikes on Houthi-linked targets in Yemen, including strikes on 7/7/2025 targeting the port city of Hodeida and surrounding areas.
In May, the Houthi group reached a ceasefire agreement with the US after weeks of intense American airstrikes. However, the group only committed to not attacking US warships in the Red Sea, refusing to halt attacks on Israel and related cargo ships.
Pham Giang (According to AFP, Reuters)
