LONDON - A recent missile attack carried out by Houthi rebels resulted in the tragic death of three sailors aboard a merchant vessel, the True Confidence, in the Red Sea. The ship, owned by a Greek company and flying the flag of Barbados, was set ablaze around 50 nautical miles off the coast of Yemen's port of Aden. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, citing it as part of their campaign in solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza conflict.

The incident has prompted condemnation from various quarters, with the British embassy lamenting the loss of innocent lives and calling for an end to Houthi missile attacks on international shipping. The United States and Britain have retaliated against the Houthis, and the confirmed fatalities could escalate calls for stronger military action.

The strike also left at least four crew members injured and caused significant damage to the ship. The fate of the remaining crew, including armed guards, remains uncertain. Two Filipino sailors were identified as victims, with two others severely injured. The Philippines' ministry for migrant workers has called for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.

The attack underscores the escalating risks faced by seafarers in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, according to the International Transport Workers' Federation. The maritime industry has been disrupted by Houthi attacks, leading to costly re-routing of vessels and soaring insurance premiums.

The True Confidence, owned by True Confidence Shipping and operated by Third January Maritime, has no affiliation with the United States, despite the ongoing conflict. The vessel had been abandoned by the crew and was reported as "no longer under command" by maritime authorities.