A British cargo ship was sent a chilling warning moments before being targeted by a attack.
This was revealed in a series of threatening emails sent by the Yemen-based Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC).
The message warned the ship, which had docked at an Israeli port in violation of a Houthi-imposed transit ban, that it would be “directly targeted by the Yemeni Armed Forces in any area they deem appropriate.”
Soon after,
Eight ballistic and winged missiles, a drone, and an unmanned surface boat were used in the strike, according to claims made by the Houthis.
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A massive explosion erupted from oil tanker Cordelia Moon. (Image: Houthi Military)
The ship suffered damage to its port side buoyancy tanks which released a thick cloud of black smoke and flames hundreds of feet into the air.
reported that the email was one of many sent to at least six shipping companies since May.
The warnings, written in English, said: “You bear the responsibility and consequences of including the vessel in the ban list.”
The HOCC’s email further warned that sanctions would be imposed on the entire fleet of any company violating the ban criteria.
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Eight ballistic and winged missiles, a drone, and an unmanned surface boat were used in the strike. (Image: Houthi Military)
The Houthis, backed by , have conducted nearly 100 attacks on ships crossing the since November 2023, acting in solidarity with Palestinians during ‘s war in Gaza.
The rebel group has sunk two ships, seized another, and caused the deaths of at least four people.
In August, they targeted the Sounion tanker, leaving it ablaze for weeks.
Greek shipping companies have been hit particularly hard, with nearly 30 percent of Houthi attacks directed at their vessels.
The email campaign shows an escalation in the Houthis’ tactics, with threats now extending to entire fleets, further increasing the risks for cargo ships on the Red Sea.
One email, sent in June, warned a shipping company that “punishments will be imposed on all vessels of your company… Best Regards, Yemen Navy.”
The ’s naval force, Aspides, has been working to ensure the safe passage of over 200 ships through the Red Sea.
However, the growing threat has forced many shipping companies to reconsider their routes, with some opting to bypass the region altogether or suspend operations.