The Houthi rebel group has released a video showing its members attacking the cargo ship Magic Seas, planting explosives, and sinking the vessel in the Red Sea.
On July 8, Houthi forces announced that Magic Seas had violated their ban on ships docking at Israeli ports. The ship’s captain reportedly refused orders to reduce speed and stop the vessel. Houthi members then launched an attack using unmanned boats and small arms.
After the Magic Seas crew evacuated, at least three armed Houthi fighters boarded the ship, placed explosive charges along its hull, and detonated them. The ship gradually sank, appearing to break in half before disappearing beneath the waves.
The group also released footage of the attack on July 8 via the Al Masirah TV network.
On the same day, Houthi forces targeted another vessel, Eternity C, which was traveling northward in the Red Sea. The ship sustained heavy damage and became disabled. According to Reuters, both Magic Seas and Eternity C are part of fleets owned by companies whose vessels have previously docked in Israel.
In recent months, the Houthi have significantly altered their tactics for attacking merchant ships in the Red Sea. Instead of relying solely on drones and missiles, they have increasingly deployed high-speed boats and unmanned explosive-laden vessels to swarm and assault targets.
The Houthis began attacking Israel and ships they claim are linked to the country in the Red Sea in November 2023, declaring it an act of solidarity with their ally Hamas and the people of Gaza.
Since then, they have hijacked the Galaxy Leader in November 2023, sunk three cargo ships, and damaged several others. In response, the U.S. and allied forces have launched strikes on Houthi positions in an attempt to halt the group’s maritime campaign.
Despite sustained airstrikes, the Houthis have continued to attack merchant ships and have launched multiple missile and drone assaults on U.S. naval vessels. The group claims to have shot down 22 American MQ-9 armed drones and nearly struck several F-16 and F-35 fighter jets.
In early May, former U.S. President Donald Trump unexpectedly announced a ceasefire deal with the Houthis. Under the agreement, Washington would halt airstrikes against Houthi forces, while the rebels would stop targeting American warships in the Red Sea. However, the deal does not include provisions requiring the Houthis to end attacks on Israeli territory or vessels linked to Israel in the region.