Indian Navy Assists Panama-Flagged Oil Tanker Attacked by Houthi Militants off Yemen

On Sunday, the Indian Navy's destroyer INS Kochi responded to a maritime security incident involving an attack on the Panama-flagged crude oil tanker MV Andromeda Star by Houthi militants off the coast of Yemen. The vessel, with 30 crew members aboard, including 22 Indians, reported minor damage following the attack.

The Indian Navy intercepted the vessel, conducted an aerial reconnaissance mission, and dispatched an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team to evaluate the risk. All 30 crew members were reported safe, and the vessel proceeded with its scheduled journey.

According to the US Central Command, Iranian-backed Houthi militants launched three anti-ship ballistic missiles from Yemen, with the MV Andromeda Star sustaining limited harm. The Indian Navy's swift action reiterates its commitment and resolve in safeguarding seafarers in the region, which has seen a rise in attacks on commercial vessels by Houthi militants in the Red Sea.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the growing global concerns over attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea by Iranian-backed Houthi militants. The Indian Navy's prompt response and assistance underscore its efforts to address heightened security threats in the region and protect Indian nationals and vessels.

The attack on the MV Andromeda Star is part of a series of incidents involving Houthi militants targeting commercial vessels in the Red Sea since November 2023. The Indian Navy has extended assistance to several merchant vessels in the region in recent weeks, substantially enhancing its maritime surveillance efforts and augmenting force levels in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Central and North Arabian Sea to keep the sea lanes of communication safe for merchant shipping.

Key Takeaways

• Indian Navy's INS Kochi responded to attack on Panama-flagged tanker by Houthi militants.
• Tanker had 30 crew, including 22 Indians; all reported safe after Navy's intervention.
• Houthi militants launched anti-ship ballistic missiles, causing limited damage to the tanker.
• Indian Navy's swift action highlights its commitment to safeguarding seafarers in the region.
• Incident underscores growing global concerns over Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in Red Sea.