Red Sea: Saudi authorities confirm destruction of waterborne bomb following reports of vessel attack off the coast of Yanbu, in Red Sea, April 27

Event

Saudi authorities claim to have intercepted and destroyed a waterborne improvised explosive device (WBIED) off the coast of Yanbu at approximately 0640 April 27. It remains unclear whether was any collateral damage as a result of the Saudi naval operation to destroy the WBIED. The incident followed unconfirmed media reports that an explosion had impacted a vessel in the Red Sea. Some reports allege the NCC Dammam may have been targeted, approximately two nautical miles from Yanbu Port. The UKMTO has acknowledged reports of an incident, though additional details remain unclear. No casualties have been reported.

Saudi authorities and its allies could increase naval and aerial surveillance in the coming days, which could potentially cause some disruptions to shipping and maritime transport throughout the Red Sea, including the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

Context

A series of high-profile incidents involving vessels and oil tankers has occurred in the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Red Sea in recent years. The most recent maritime incident involved an alleged Israeli vessel that was damaged following an apparent Iranian attack off the coast of Fujairah. As tensions between Washington and its allies and Tehran persist, further similar incidents remain likely.

Advice

Exercise caution and reconfirm routes with maritime authorities if transiting or shipping freight through the Red Sea in the coming days.