Oil Tanker Struck by Houthi Rebels Heads to Safe Harbor

The Marlin Luanda oil tanker, operated by Trafigura, is currently heading towards a secure port after successfully extinguishing a fire ignited by a missile strike from Yemen’s Houthi rebels. Trafigura confirmed the incident on Saturday, noting that all crew members on the tanker are safe.

The attack occurred on Friday as the vessel navigated through the Gulf of Aden, having just traversed the Red Sea. It marked yet another commercial ship targeted by a Houthi missile.

Trafigura commended the crew for their extraordinary courage and dedication in handling the situation. The company also expressed gratitude to naval forces from India, France, and the United States for their support during the crisis.

The conflict involving Israel and Hamas in Gaza is seen as a contributing factor to these incidents. The Houthis, supported by Iran, have stated their attacks are in response to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. However, the United States has consistently dismissed this justification.

Additionally, the Houthis have cited retaliatory motives for recent strikes on their infrastructure by the US and UK militaries, which were aimed at halting the group’s activities in a crucial global shipping route.

Regarding the tanker, US Central Command reported that the Marlin Luanda was transporting a highly flammable liquid hydrogen mixture when it was struck by the missile. This strike led to a fire that required a full day to be put out. According to US military officials, the ship’s crew comprises one Bangladeshi and twenty-two Indian nationals.