Yemen’s Huthi rebels have warned that Israeli ships are a “legitimate target” following their seizure of an Israel-linked cargo vessel. The capture of the Galaxy Leader and its crew came shortly after the Houthis threatened to target Israeli shipping in response to the Israel-Hamas war. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have been launching drones and missiles towards Israel and consider themselves part of Iran’s allies and proxies. Major General Ali Al-Moshki, a Huthi military official, stated that Israeli ships are legitimate targets anywhere. Analysts believe that Huthi threats to shipping in the Bab al-Mandab Strait will likely increase. The Galaxy Leader, registered in the Bahamas and owned by a British company, has connections to Israeli businessman Abraham “Rami” Ungar. The Houthis claim that the capture is retaliation for Israel’s war against Hamas. Maritime security company Ambrey reported that the rebels boarded the ship using a method similar to Iran’s previous vessel seizures in the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel was redirected to the Yemeni port of Salif. Israel’s military described the seizure as a “very grave incident of global consequence,” and a US military official deemed it a violation of international law. The crew, consisting of individuals from various countries, is reportedly under investigation by the Houthis. Japanese authorities are working to ensure their safety and are in communication with the Houthis, Israel, and other concerned countries. Experts predict that the threat to shipping in the region will likely increase, potentially leading to higher costs due to the lack of alternative routes. The capture of the ship may be a result of the Huthi’s failed missile and drone launches targeting Israel, prompting them to shift their focus to the Red Sea arena.
Houthis in Yemen Warned by Israel: Seizing India-Bound Ship Deemed a Legitimate Target
