Houthi Strike On Merchant Vessel Verbena, USS Philippine Sea Evacuates Severely Injured Mariner
Houthi rebels also released a statement claiming to have attacked a "Tutor" merchant vessel in the Red Sea region previously reported on by U.S. Central Command.
GULF OF ADEN - After Houthi forces struck the Palauan-flagged, Ukrainian-owned and Polish-operated bulk cargo carrier Verbena with two anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs), Aircraft from the USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) medically evacuated a severely injured mariner.
The Merchant Vessel Verbena was on its way to transport wood and construction materials to Italy and was recently docked in Malaysia. It was hit by both missiles fired by Houthi forces and reported damage and onboard fires due to the missile attack. U.S. Central Command reports that the crew members continue to fight the fire.
One member of the vessel's crew suffered severe injuries and underwent a medical evacuation to a nearby partner force vessel where they could be treated for their injuries.
U.S. Central Command said, "This continued reckless behavior by the Iranian-backed Houthis threatens regional stability and endangers the lives of mariners across the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden".
The Houthi rebels also recently released a statement claiming to have attacked a merchant vessel in the Red Sea region. The statement claimed it carried out a "Military operation targeting the Tutor ship in the Red Sea, using a naval drone, aerial drones, and ballistic missiles".
The vessel was around 68 nautical miles southwest of Al Hudaydah, according to the maritime security firm Ambrey. The UKMTO reported a vessel located 66 nautical miles from that location was hit in the stern by a small, white craft between 16 to 23 feet in length on June 12th.
Later, U.S. Central Command released a statement that said The Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned and operated merchant vessel "Tutor" which was most recently docked in Russia was hit by one Houthi unmanned surface vessel (USV) causing "severe flooding and damage to the engine room".
The UKMTO advised vessels to transit the region with caution and to report any suspicious activity. This report will be updated when more information on the attack is available.