A cargo ship was seriously damaged in an attack over the weekend near Yemen, which a Houthi rebel group claimed responsibility for. The incident represents an escalation of tensions in the region.

On Saturday, two anti-ship missiles struck the Belize-flagged commercial vessel MV Rubymar while traveling through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The attack forced the crew to abandon ship due to damage.

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who control parts of Yemen, said the missiles inflicted “catastrophic” harm that could cause the ship to sink. However, the vessel’s security firm stated the ship was taking on water but still afloat, and salvage options were being considered.

This was the first time a commercial ship crew had to abandon their vessel following a Houthi attack. In recent years, the rebel group has targeted multiple ships near Yemen.

U.S. Central Command confirmed American naval forces responded to the ship’s distress call and assisted the MV Rubymar’s crew. Two other commercial vessels in the area were also reportedly targeted.

On Monday, the Houthis claimed they shot down a U.S. surveillance drone over Yemen. The U.S. acknowledged a drone crash but did not confirm it was shot down.

The attacks come amid U.S. efforts to restrain Houthi aggression and deter Iran from assisting the rebel group. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps provides intelligence and logistical aid to the Houthis, per U.S. officials.

Some analysts argue more decisive military action is required to prevent future incidents and protect shipping lanes near Yemen. Others warn of risks from direct confrontation and advocate for diplomacy.

As the rebel attacks continue, the debate continues over how to balance deterrence with de-escalation in the complex regional dynamics surrounding the Yemen conflict. The latest incident has renewed concerns about stability and free commerce through strategic Middle Eastern waterways.