Doha: The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed on Tuesday that an explosion occurred near a commercial vessel in the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Yemen. In a statement, UKMTO said it received a report of an incident approximately 120 nautical miles (222 kilometers) east of Aden. The vessel’s master reported hearing an explosion and water splashing close to the ship.
According to Qatar News Agency, UKMTO described the incident as an “attack” but noted that the vessel sustained no damage and the crew remained unharmed while en route to its next port of call. It added that relevant authorities are investigating the incident.
The Houthis have carried out repeated drone and missile attacks in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the Gulf of Aden, forcing shipping companies to divert vessels onto longer and more costly routes.