Four Seafarers Killed in Drone Attack off Yemen

Tragedy struck the waters off Yemen as four seafarers aboard the Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated bulk carrier Eternity C lost their lives in a vicious drone and speedboat attack. This incident marks the second attack in a day, shattering the months of calm that had prevailed in the region.

Escalating Tensions in the Red Sea

The Red Sea, a crucial maritime route for global trade in oil and commodities, has been marred by violence since the Iran-aligned Houthi militia began targeting ships in November 2023. The recent attacks were purportedly in solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza war.

The death toll on the Eternity C brings the total number of seafarers killed in Red Sea attacks to eight. With 22 crew members on board, the vessel fell victim to sea drones and rocket-propelled grenades fired from manned speed boats, leaving it adrift and listing.

International Response

Greece has initiated diplomatic talks with Saudi Arabia following the attack on the Eternity C. The European Union’s mission, Aspides, is also actively involved in safeguarding Red Sea shipping, with reports of additional casualties and injuries among the crew members.

Meanwhile, the Houthis, responsible for the attacks, have not yet commented on the Eternity C incident but have claimed responsibility for a prior strike on the MV Magic Seas, another vessel in the region.

Global Concerns

The international community has condemned the attacks, noting the grave impact on innocent seafarers and local populations. The resumption of violence in the Red Sea poses a significant threat to maritime security and freedom of navigation, violating international law.

As tensions persist in the region, Filipino seafarers have been advised to exercise caution and avoid high-risk areas. Shipping traffic through the Red Sea has significantly decreased due to the ongoing security concerns, with no immediate resolution in sight.

Conclusion

As the maritime community grapples with the aftermath of these attacks, efforts to ensure the safety of seafarers and secure vital shipping routes remain paramount. The tragic loss of lives on the Eternity C serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in maintaining peace and stability in the Red Sea.

(Source: Reuters – Reporting by Jonathan Saul and Renee Maltezou, additional reporting by Yannis Souliotis in Athens and Karen Lema in Manila; editing by Sharon Singleton and Mark Heinrich)