Abandoned Ship: Red Sea Sees Renewed Attacks on Shipping
The Magic Seas, a Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned bulk carrier, was abandoned by its crew on Sunday, July 6, 2025, following a sophisticated and sustained assault involving drones, grenades, and small arms fire. The incident, occurring approximately 94 kilometers (51 nautical miles) southwest of the Yemeni port of Hodeidah, marks the first significant attack in the critical shipping corridor since April.
Initial reports from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) indicate the vessel was first "engaged by multiple small vessels" that opened fire with "small arms and self-propelled grenades." This initial barrage ignited a fire on board and caused the ship to begin taking on water. Further details from the private British maritime security firm Ambrey reveal that the Magic Seas was subsequently struck by four unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). Two USVs impacted the port side, causing cargo damage, while the other two were reportedly intercepted and destroyed by an onboard armed security team.
All crew members safely evacuated the distressed vessel and were rescued by a passing merchant ship. While no group immediately claimed responsibility, suspicion has largely converged on Yemen's Houthi rebels. The Houthis, who control much of Yemen, have been actively targeting vessels in the Red Sea since October 2023, asserting their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Houthi media acknowledged the attack, though formal attribution remains pending.
This incident unfolds amidst a delicate geopolitical climate in the Middle East, with ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, and recent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. The strike on the Magic Seas serves as a stark reminder of the Houthis' persistent capability and readiness to disrupt strategic maritime routes, irrespective of broader diplomatic developments.
The Houthi campaign has already caused significant global shipping disruptions, compelling numerous companies to reroute vessels around the African continent, leading to substantial delays and escalated costs. Between November 2023 and January 2025, Houthi forces conducted over 100 attacks on commercial vessels, resulting in two sinkings and four fatalities among sailors.
