Al Mukha(Yemen), 05 October (H.S.): Concerns over the safety of commercial vessels in the waters at the entrance to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden have risen once again after several explosions were reported in close proximity to an oil tanker approximately 60 nautical miles south of the Yemeni city of Al Mukha. Following the incident, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) issued a warning on X for vessels transiting the area.

According to Warning No. 151-26, the incident was reported by the vessel’s Company Security Officer (CSO). The report stated that while the vessel was sailing through waters south of Al Mukha, several loud explosions were observed in very close proximity to the ship. It is not yet clear what caused the explosions or who was responsible. UKMTO has classified the incident as suspicious activity.

The most reassuring development is that all crew members aboard the tanker are reported to be safe. According to UKMTO, no environmental damage has been reported following the incident. There have been no reports so far of an oil spill or any other environmental impact at sea.

UKMTO said that an official investigation into the incident has been launched. It remains unclear whether the explosions were linked to military activity, a missile or drone attack, or another cause. Therefore, the incident has not, at this stage, been attributed to any particular group or country.

UKMTO has advised all commercial vessels transiting the area to exercise extreme caution. Captains and shipping companies have also been instructed to report any suspicious activity to UKMTO immediately.

The maritime area south of Al Mukha is strategically important because it lies close to the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a key waterway connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. The region has recently witnessed heightened regional tensions and increased military activity.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar