The Yemen-based group announced the attack in a statement on Monday (August 24), claiming that a ballistic missile was fired at the vessel, which is owned by Bahri, Saudi Arabia’s national shipping company.
The attack raised concerns over the vessel’s safety. However, Bahri said all crew members aboard the Amjan were safe and that no casualties had been reported. The company said it was maintaining regular communication with the vessel and monitoring the situation in coordination with the relevant authorities.
Bahri said the safety of its crew, protection of the marine environment and safe management of the vessel remain its highest priorities.
According to the Houthi military spokesperson, the attack specifically targeted the Saudi-owned vessel near the coast of Yanbu. The incident is the latest in a series of attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis against Saudi interests.
Houthi activity has increased recently in the Red Sea and surrounding waterways. Earlier, reports emerged of an attack on a port in Yemen that killed seven people, as well as an attack on a Saudi oil refinery.
In another incident, a cargo ship was attacked twice in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, leaving at least six people dead and 10 others injured.
The attacks have raised concerns that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could widen further. With tensions between the United States and Iran also escalating, concerns have grown over the security of the Red Sea and other strategically important maritime routes.