DUBAI - Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for targeting the Norwegian commercial tanker STRINDA in protest against Israel's actions in Gaza.The attack occurred about 60 nautical miles north of the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

Despite the crew's refusal to respond to warnings, the tanker sustained damage but managed to move under its own power. The U.S. Navy destroyer USS MASON responded to the distress call, and there were no casualties reported.

The Houthi spokesperson declared their intention to block ships heading to Israeli ports until Israel allows food and medical aid into Gaza.

The STRINDA, owned by Mowinckel Chemical Tankers, loaded cargo in Malaysia and was en route to Venice, Italy. The vessel's crew of 22 from India is unharmed.

This incident follows previous Houthi attacks on ships and their seizure of a British-owned cargo ship with ties to an Israeli company.

The U.S. and Britain have condemned the attacks, attributing them to Iranian support for the Houthis, while Saudi Arabia urges restraint in the response.