London, June 19, 2024 — Yemen's Houthi rebels are believed to have sunk a second British ship, the Tutor, in the Red Sea, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The Greek-owned vessel, carrying coal, was attacked on June 12 with missiles and an explosive-laden remote-controlled boat. This incident follows the Houthis' continued targeting of commercial ships since November, purportedly in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

The UKMTO reported observing marine debris and oil at Tutor's last reported location, suggesting the ship had sunk. The ship's manager was unavailable for comment, and one crew member, who was in the engine room at the time of the attack, is currently missing.

This attack is the latest in a series of assaults on commercial vessels in the region. Previously, on March 2, the Houthis sank the UK-owned ship Rubimar. Additionally, the Houthis severely damaged the Liberian-flagged vessel and the Palau-flagged Verbena, forcing the Verbena's crew to abandon ship due to an uncontrollable fire. The Verbena, carrying wood construction materials, is now adrift in the Gulf of Aden, at risk of sinking or further attacks.

Houthi drone and missile assaults have been forcing commercial ships to take the longer route around Africa instead of the Suez Canal trade shortcut, leading to delays and increased costs, thereby disrupting global trade.

In response to the Houthi attacks, US and British forces conducted airstrikes on Monday targeting Yemen's Hodeidah International Airport and Qamaran Island near the Red Sea port of Salif. These strikes were in retaliation for the attack on the Tutor.

The ongoing conflict in the Red Sea highlights the escalating maritime threats and their impact on international shipping routes, necessitating heightened security measures and international cooperation to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels.