On 18 October, Iran‑backed Houthi rebels entered the United Nations compound in Sana’a, Yemen, where 15 international staff were present, but all were later reported safe.
Yemen: Houthi Rebels Storm UN Office
On Saturday, 18 October, the AP reported that Iran‑backed Houthi rebels entered the UN facility in Yemen’s capital Sana’a. UN special coordinator in Yemen, Jean Alam, said that during the raid, 15 international staff were present at the site and that “according to the latest information, all staff in the complex are safe and have contacted their families.”
Attack on Ship off the Coast of Yemen
Meanwhile, off the coast of Yemen, a cargo ship flying the flag of Cameroon was set ablaze after being hit by an unknown projectile. The Associated Press reported that the attack occurred about 215 kilometres east of Aden. One crew member was reported missing, another likely remained on the burning vessel’s deck. The rest of the sailors were evacuated. The EU operation Operation Aspides, patrolling the waters of the Gulf of Aden, said the 26‑person crew consisted only of Indians, except for one Ukrainian. The investigation is being led by the UK Maritime Operations Centre.
Media on Causes of the Attack in Yemen
British officials suggested that the ship was struck by a projectile, while EU representatives said it could have been an “accident.” A warning was issued to other units in the area because the vessel was fully loaded with flammable liquid fuel and could explode. The attack highlights an ongoing danger to maritime traffic in the region, despite the US‑brokered ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The Yemen Houthi group has repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, attempting to pressure Israel. The group has not claimed responsibility for the incident.
Death of a Top Houthi Commander
On Thursday, 16 October, it was reported that one of the Houthi rebels’ top commanders, General Mohammed al‑Ghamari, had died. The group, backed by Iran, transmitted the message. Al‑Ghamari died in an Israeli attack. The Houthis said the “conflict with Israel will not end and will face a deterrent penalty for the crimes committed.” They also noted that the division general Mohammed al‑Ghamari died “while performing his duties.” On 26 September, at least nine people were killed in an Israeli attack on the Houthi general staff headquarters.
Yemeni Rebels Firing at Israel in Solidarity with Gaza
Since November 2023, Yemeni rebels have started firing at Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The Hou… hold control over the capital Sana’a and the northwest region of Yemen since 2015, when they overthrew the internationally recognised government.
