British military ship hit by projectile, ablaze in Gulf of Aden; Houthi rebels suspected

A ship caught fire in the Gulf of Aden off Yemen on Saturday after being hit by a projectile , the British military said.

Reports indicated the crew was preparing to abandon ship as a search-and-rescue operation was launched.

Radio traffic suggested the crew was ready to abandon ship, prompting authorities to coordinate rescue efforts.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre said the incident occurred about 210 kilometres east of Aden . “A vessel has been hit by an unknown projectile, resulting with a fire. Authorities are investigating,” the UKMTO said.

Yemen’s Houthi rebels have frequently targeted ships in the Red Sea corridor, disrupting maritime trade. However, the group did not immediately claim responsibility for Saturday’s strike, reported news agency AP.

Houthi attacks have previously killed at least nine mariners and sunk four ships. Their most recent confirmed strike hit the Dutch-flagged cargo ship Minervagracht on September 29, killing one crew member and injuring another.

The Houthis gained international prominence during the Israel -Hamas war for their attacks on Israel, which they said were aimed at forcing Israel to cease the fight. Since the ceasefire on October 10 during the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Houthis have not claimed any attacks, according to the AP.