Small-Boat and Drone Attack Ignites Bulk Carrier Magic Seas off Yemen

A Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned bulk carrier, identified by maritime security sources as the Magic Seas, was attacked on 6 July about 51 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s Hodeidah port, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said. Eight small boats opened fire with small arms and rocket-propelled grenades; the ship’s armed security team returned fire.

Private security firm Ambrey later reported that four unmanned surface vehicles also targeted the vessel, with two striking the port side and damaging its cargo. The impacts ignited a fire, and the ship began taking on water.

UKMTO said the crew abandoned the burning vessel and were picked up unharmed by a passing merchant ship. The Magic Seas was still adrift and partially submerged at last report, with investigators assessing the extent of damage and pollution risk.

No group immediately claimed responsibility, but Ambrey said the tactics match previous attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement. The assault is the first on commercial traffic in the Red Sea corridor since mid-April, underscoring renewed security risks for a route that carries a significant share of global maritime trade.