Yemen: UAE naval vessel targeted in Houthi attack July 29

Event

Houthi rebels claim to have targeted a United Arab Emirates (UAE) naval vessel in the Red Sea port of Mokha, off the western coast of Yemen, on Saturday, July 29. The Saudi Press Agency reported that the Houthis used a remotely controlled explosives-laden boat, which struck a pier close to a group of ships docked at Mokha. The boat reportedly collided with the edge of the port close to a group of docked ships, causing an explosion but resulting in no major damage.

This is the third UAE vessel to be attacked off Yemen's western coast since the beginning of 2017.

Context

Yemen is engaged in a complex and deadly conflict, ongoing since Houthi rebels entered into a civil war with the coalition-backed government in 2015. Houthi rebels have carried out a number of attacks on Saudi navy patrols and other ships over the past six months. In northern Yemen, cross-border incidents with Saudi Arabia have increased in frequency in the last few months, especially in Jizan, Najran, and Asir. Missiles have been launched by Houthi rebels against Saudi forces and sniper attacks have targeted Saudi soldiers on a near-daily basis.

Advice

The security environment in Yemen remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel. Many Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the country.