Access the latest Maritime Security Threat Advisory for the week commencing 20th November 2023.
👉 On Sunday, Israeli authorities reported the capture of a Japanese-operated cargo vessel by Yemen's Houthi forces in the southern Red Sea. This event was labelled by Israel as an act of terrorism influenced by Iran, raising concerns about the implications for global maritime safety.
The Houthi faction confirmed intercepting a vessel in the same region but claimed it was Israeli. Public shipping records link the vessel's ownership to Ray Car Carriers, established by Abraham "Rami" Ungar, a prominent Israeli businessman.
Yahya Saree, a spokesperson for the Houthi movement, stated social media warning that any ships affiliated with or supporting Israel would be considered legitimate targets by Yemen's military.
Saree further asserted the independent actions of regional resistance groups, stating they represent their nations' interests and operate autonomously. This comment follows Iran's pattern of seizing foreign ships near the Straits of Hormuz for political objectives. However, Tehran has recently applauded the actions of anti-Israeli “resistance” groups while highlighting their operational independence.