DUBAI, U.A.E.: A cargo ship flagged under Liberia, known as the Eternity C, sank in the Red Sea following an attack executed by Yemen's Houthi rebels on July 9.

This incident has drawn significant attention due to its profound implications for maritime safety in a region vital for international trade, where an estimated US$1 trillion worth of cargo passes annually.

Reports indicate that, out of the 25 crew members on board, only six have been rescued, while at least three others have lost their lives in the assault.

The attack on the Eternity C marks the most aggressive action taken by the Houthis along the Red Sea trade route recently. This escalation raises alarming concerns regarding the safety of maritime operations in the Red Sea, which had previously seen a cautious revival as vessels began to return to these waters. Furthermore, the incident comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which the Houthis claim to support through their military actions targeting commercial shipping.

From November 2023 to December 2024, the Houthis have reportedly launched over 100 attacks on vessels in the region, utilizing missiles and drones. However, there had been a pause in their aggression during a temporary ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. Following this, they became the target of significant U.S.-led airstrikes, ordered by President Trump. The simultaneous attack on the Eternity C and the sinking of a separate vessel, the Magic Seas, prompts critical questions regarding maritime security in the Red Sea.

Hans Grundberg, the United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen, expressed grave concern regarding the recent hostilities, emphasizing the potential for further civilian casualties and environmental degradation. He referred to the attacking forces as Ansar Allah, another name for the Houthis, and reiterated the need for protecting civilian infrastructure.

A statement from the European Union's naval mission confirmed that the crew of the Eternity C comprised 22 sailors, predominantly from the Philippines, alongside a security team that included members from different nations. The nature of the attack was brutal; armed militants reportedly employed rocket-propelled grenades and small arms before utilizing drones and drone boats equipped with explosives to engage the vessel. The ship ultimately sank around 7:50 AM local time.

The Eternity C was owned by a Greek company and had been targeted, likely due to its connections with Israel, similar to the Magic Seas attack. Notably, neither of the vessels sought protection from the European naval force stationed in the area. While the U.S. military maintains an operational presence in the region with aircraft carriers like the USS Nimitz and USS Carl Vinson, their location in the Arabian Sea places them far from the scene of the attacks, which, interestingly, had no direct ties to American interests.

Brigadier General Yahya Saree, a spokesperson for the Houthis, claimed responsibility for the attack via a pre-recorded message, detailing the group's military capabilities in a video showcasing the missile launches aimed at the ship. The footage displayed extensive damage to the Eternity C and indicated a significant oil leak. Observers noted the rebels' chants celebrating the attack, which underscores the deep-seated ideological motivations behind their actions.

In the aftermath, Philippe's Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac communicated that the government is actively engaging with families of the Filipino sailors to provide updates on the ongoing search and rescue efforts. This proactive approach stems from a recognition of the emotional turmoil families face during such distressing times.

The international community has condemned these assaults. U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce highlighted the ongoing risks posed by the Houthi rebels to freedom of navigation and regional maritime security, affirming the U.S. commitment to protecting commercial shipping interests.

The situation in the Red Sea reflects a complex interplay of geopolitical tensions that extend far beyond Yemen. A balanced approach to diplomacy and conflict resolution is necessary for the region's stability.