Houthi Strike Sinks Greek-Operated Ship; Rescues Underway Amid Ongoing Crisis

Red Sea – July 10, 2025
A cargo ship has sunk in the Red Sea following a brutal attack by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels, leaving at least four crew members dead, ten rescued, and an unknown number reportedly kidnapped, according to international naval authorities and maritime agencies.

The Eternity C, a Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated vessel, came under fire on Monday, reportedly from rocket-propelled grenades launched from small boats, said the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The ship, which was carrying 25 crew members, sustained significant damage, lost all propulsion, and sank after hours of continued assault.

🧯 Attack and Rescue: 10 Survivors Pulled from Sea

The EU naval mission Operation Aspides confirmed that four additional survivors were rescued Wednesday night, including three Filipinos and one Greek, bringing the total rescued to 10.
Earlier rescue efforts had saved six others.

Maritime security firm Diaplous, based in Greece, released dramatic footage of the rescue operation, showing seafarers who had reportedly spent over 24 hours in open water before being pulled to safety.

“We will continue to search for the remaining crew until the last light,” Diaplous said in a statement.

👥 Crew Composition: Mostly Filipino Nationals, One Severely Injured Russian

According to Philippine authorities, 21 of the 25 crew members aboard the Eternity C were Filipino citizens. A Russian crew member was also severely wounded, losing a leg in the attack, further highlighting the human toll of the escalating maritime crisis.

❗ Hostage Situation: Survivors Taken by Houthis

In a chilling development, Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that the ship was targeted because it was allegedly heading to Israel. The group said they had taken several crew members to a “safe location.”

The U.S. embassy in Yemen condemned the assault, describing it as an act of kidnapping, and demanded the immediate release of the surviving crew members.

🛡️ A Growing Threat in Strategic Waters

This latest attack is part of a growing series of assaults by Houthi forces on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, a crucial global trade route. The violence has sparked international concern over maritime security and the safety of seafarers in the region.

The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have frequently targeted vessels they believe are linked to Western interests or Israel, further complicating efforts to maintain open and safe navigation in the region.

📉 Escalating Toll: Deaths Rise to at Least Four

While three deaths were initially confirmed, Reuters reported on Thursday that the death toll has risen to four, citing maritime security sources. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing, with hopes of locating any additional survivors or recovering the bodies of the missing.

🌐 Global Condemnation and Calls for Action

The international community has condemned the attack. Shipping industry leaders and human rights organizations are calling for greater protection for maritime workers in conflict zones.

This incident underscores the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to safeguard maritime routes and prevent further loss of life.

📍 What’s Next?

• Search and rescue operations continue.

• Pressure mounts on Houthi rebels to release kidnapped crew.

• Global shipping routes may face increased disruptions as security concerns grow.

As the Red Sea becomes an increasingly dangerous maritime zone, this tragic incident may push governments and international coalitions to consider new measures for securing global trade corridors — and protecting the lives of those who navigate them.