Indian Cargo Ship Sinks in Red Sea After Houthi Attack; Yemeni Forces Rescue Crew

August 5, 2026

New Delhi, August 5: An Indian-flagged cargo ship sank in the Red Sea following an attack by a boat laden with explosives near Yemen’s western coast. According to reports from Xinhua, Yemeni forces successfully rescued 14 crew members from the ship, which included 13 Indian sailors and one Yemeni national. The exact timing of the attack remains unclear.

The government-backed National Resistance Forces (NRF) stated that coast guard and naval units conducted a joint operation to rescue the crew of the vessel named ‘Fayze Nure Olya.’ The attack occurred approximately 13 nautical miles south of the port city of Hodeidah, which is under Houthi control.

All 14 individuals aboard the ship were reported safe and were transported to a secure location. Medical assistance was provided, and there were no reports of casualties. The NRF has attributed the attack to the Houthi group, but there has been no response from the Houthis as of yet.

Last month, an oil tanker owned by a Saudi Arabian company was also attacked in the Red Sea, resulting in a fire on board. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), an official from Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority (TGA) confirmed the incident.

The official reported that the fire broke out in the bow of the ship ‘Anselia,’ but all crew members were safe. Relevant authorities took all necessary measures to ensure the safety of the vessel, its crew, and the marine environment.

A warning from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) indicated that the attack occurred approximately 70 nautical miles (about 130 kilometers) southwest of the Saudi city of Al Shuqaiq.

On July 23, the Houthi group claimed responsibility for attacks on two Saudi oil tankers, ‘Anselia’ and ‘Laila,’ in the Red Sea. They stated that ballistic and cruise missiles, along with drones, were used in the attacks, alleging that these vessels violated their recently declared maritime restrictions.

The Houthi group has previously announced maritime restrictions on vessels linked to Saudi Arabia, claiming this action is a response to the long-standing blockade in areas under their control.