Suspected Pirate Attacks on Merchant Ships Raise Security Concerns Off Yemen
Two merchant ships were attacked off Yemen on June 15 in separate incidents that appear to be linked to piracy, The Maritime Telegraph reports. Maritime authorities say the attacks do not match the tactics normally used by Houthi forces in the region.
The first incident happened about 14 nautical miles from Yemen’s southern coast. Armed men in a small skiff approached a containership, opened fire and tried to board the vessel. The crew managed to avoid the attack, and no injuries or damage were reported.
A few hours later, another skiff carrying four armed men approached a tanker about 111 nautical miles southeast of Aden. The attackers reportedly fired a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) at the vessel. Authorities are investigating the case.
Security experts say the attacks resemble traditional Somali piracy. Unlike recent Houthi operations, which mainly involve missiles and drones, these incidents included direct gunfire and attempted boardings from small boats.
The Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) recently warned that pirate groups remain active in the Gulf of Aden and the Somali Basin. The organization said three merchant vessels are currently being held by Somali pirates.
The latest attacks highlight the continuing security risks for commercial shipping in one of the world's busiest maritime routes. Shipowners and operators are being urged to maintain strong anti-piracy measures and stay alert while operating in the region.
