Attack on Vessel in Red Sea: Tanker Struck by Projectiles

On September 2nd, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported an attack on a merchant vessel. The crude oil tanker MV Blue Lagoon I was hit twice by unidentified projectiles while situated 70 nautical miles northwest of Saleef, Yemen.

The crew managed to control the damage inflicted by the projectiles but, the vessel's captain reported a third missile detonating near the ship. Fortunately, all crew members were unharmed, and the vessel was able to continue its journey to the next port.

The U.S. Central Command also confirmed the assault on the MV Blue Lagoon I in the Red Sea. They additionally reported that another crude oil tanker, the Amjad, was targeted by the Houthis. Both vessels were struck by missiles and an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS).

According to U.S. Central Command, both tankers were carrying full loads. The Saudi-flagged tanker Amjad, in particular, was transporting two million barrels of crude oil. The vessel is expected to arrive in Ain Sukhna, Egypt, on September 6th.

Iran-backed Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack on the MV Blue Lagoon I, stating that they used multiple missiles and drones. However, they have not yet acknowledged targeting the Amjad.