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Bulk Carrier Fired Upon in Strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Officials Say

06:24 PM, 12/05/2025

A bulk carrier transiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait was chased and fired upon by smaller vessels on Friday, UKMTO and private security sources said. Diaplous Group reported the ship was attacked twice and that armed guards returned fire; the crew were reported safe. The Bab el-Mandeb connects the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and has faced threats from both Houthi strikes and renewed Somali-linked piracy, underscoring ongoing security concerns for the vital shipping lane.

Suspected Pirate Attack on Bulk Carrier in Bab el-Mandeb

Officials reported that a bulk carrier transiting the narrow Bab el-Mandeb Strait on Friday was chased and fired upon by smaller vessels, in an incident maritime authorities describe as a suspected pirate attack.

UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said the ship was pursued by fast-moving boats that opened fire. Private security firm Diaplous Group reported the vessel came under attack twice and that armed guards aboard returned fire. Diaplous also confirmed the crew were safe.

The Bab el-Mandeb is a key shipping corridor that links the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and separates the Horn of Africa from the Arabian Peninsula. The route is vital to global trade and oil shipments and has in recent years experienced security threats, including attacks claimed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels and a resurgence of pirate activity linked to Somalia.

While Houthi attacks have largely paused during a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, the latest incident highlights ongoing maritime risks in the region and the continued importance of vigilance, onboard security measures, and international monitoring in these waters.

Note: Authorities have not publicly released the name or flag of the vessel. Maritime organizations typically advise ships to follow recommended transit corridors and report suspicious activity immediately to naval and security centers.

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