Houthi Attack Sinks Red Sea Vessel: 10 Rescued, 4 Dead

A rescue team has successfully saved ten crew members from the Red Sea, a day after a Houthi militant attack that sank a vessel. The Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated Eternity C was carrying 25 crew members, among whom four perished in the Houthi-claimed assault. The whereabouts of 11 other crew members remain uncertain, with the Iran-aligned group claiming to hold some seafarers. The vessel submerged on Wednesday morning after sustaining attacks over two consecutive days, according to security firms involved in the rescue operation. The Houthis shared footage purportedly showing their attack on Eternity C, including audio of Yemen naval forces instructing crew evacuation and subsequent explosions leading to the vessel's sinking. Leading maritime organisations issued a joint statement condemning the attacks and advocating for enhanced regional maritime security. The Red Sea, a vital maritime route, has experienced reduced traffic due to these attacks. Recent data shows daily vessel passages through Bab al-Mandab strait decreasing from 43 on July 1 to 30 on July 8. Oil prices have risen accordingly, reaching their highest levels since June 23. The Eternity C faced multiple attacks, beginning Monday afternoon with sea drones and rocket-propelled grenades. The crew, comprising 21 Filipinos, one Russian, and three armed guards, abandoned ship after subsequent attacks on Tuesday. Greek authorities are currently engaging with Saudi Arabia regarding this incident.