On September 1, Yemen’s Houthi group claimed that it was responsible for a ballistic missile attack targeting the Liberian-flagged Israeli-linked oil tanker “Scarlet Ray” near the port of Yanbu in Saudi Arabia. Fortunately, the vessel was not damaged and the entire crew was also confirmed to be safe. The UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre (UKMTO) confirmed the incident and said that spray and loud explosions were observed near the vessel, and called for increased vigilance for oil tankers sailing in the area.
This incident shows that the Houthis’ operations, which have been concentrated in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the southern Red Sea, have expanded geographically, showing that the scope of danger is no longer limited to the southern Red Sea.
Therefore, each ompany is encouraged to conduct a more extensive route review and risk assessment of its vessels. We also recommend that you continue to monitor UKMTO alerts and always consult with maritime security experts when formulating voyage plans. It is also recommended to review charter obligations and deviation clauses in light of the expanded danger zone.
– Comply with the latest edition of Best Management Practices for Maritime Security (BMP-MS)
– Thoroughly implement reporting procedures in accordance with the Ship Security Plan (SSP)
– In the event of a security incident such as missiles, small ships, or unmanned drones, all crew members should be fully familiar with and trained in response procedures.
– JMIC Bridge Procedure Cards on missions and all seafarers should be familiar with them
– Maintain as much distance as possible from Iranian and Yemeni waters within compliance with the Collision Prevention Rules (COLREGs)
– Be aware of GNSS (Satellite Navigation System) information as it may be distorted
– Report any suspicious activity to UKMTO immediately
