A Greek-owned coal carrier MV Tutor sunk in the Red Sea after being attacked by Houthi missiles, adding to a series of recent maritime incidents in the region. The attacks have raised concerns about international maritime security and disrupted global trade routes.
Summary of Recent Maritime Incidents in the Red Sea
On June 12, the Greek-owned coal carrier MV Tutor was attacked by Houthi missiles in the Red Sea. The ship experienced significant damage and began taking on water. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that the vessel has since sunk, leading to sightings of debris and oil in its last known location at coordinates 14°19’N 041°14’E. One crew member, believed to have been in the engine room during the attack, remains missing.
This incident marks the second ship sunk by the Houthis in recent months. The UK-owned vessel Rubymar, carrying over 41,000 tonnes of fertilizer, was also targeted and sank in early March after a similar assault. The Houthis, who are engaged in a conflict with a Saudi-led coalition, have intensified attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, claiming these actions are in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict with Israel in Gaza.
These attacks have disrupted global maritime trade, prompting ship owners to avoid the Suez Canal and opt for longer routes around Africa’s southern tip. Despite a US-led military campaign in the region, Houthi assaults on commercial vessels continue with increasing frequency.
The recent spike in attacks highlights a new escalation in Houthi actions in the vital maritime corridor, posing challenges for international maritime security and global trade.
