An Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) chemical tanker has come under attack in the Red Sea, with a missile strike attributed to Yemen’s Houthi rebels. According to Splash247, the incident occurred on Thursday when the vessel was transiting off the Saudi Arabian coast.
The tanker, identified as the SCARLET RAY, was hit by an explosion close to the ship’s structure. EPS confirmed that while the blast caused minor external damage, the vessel’s stability, propulsion, and steering systems remained intact. Crucially, none of the crew were injured, and the ship has since continued under its own power.
Eastern Pacific Shipping said in a statement reported by Splash247 that all emergency protocols were activated immediately following the strike. The company added that it is in close contact with the crew and relevant authorities.
While the exact intent of the strike remains unclear, the incident follows a series of Houthi attacks targeting commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The Scarlet Ray was not reported to be carrying Israeli cargo or calling at Israeli ports, but nevertheless came under fire.
Regional naval forces have been alerted, and an investigation into the circumstances of the attack is ongoing. EPS noted that the safety of its crew remains its top priority and that additional security measures are being reviewed for voyages through the area.
For now, the Scarlet Ray continues its voyage, but the strike serves as a stark reminder of the risks facing merchant shipping in the Red Sea.
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