Aden — A Cameroon-flagged gas tanker named MV Falcon remains ablaze and adrift off the coast of Yemen following a deadly explosion on Saturday, October 18. The blast, which struck the vessel while transiting the Gulf of Aden near Abyan governorate, killed two crew members and forced the evacuation of the remaining 24 to Djibouti +2.

The incident has sparked international concern amid heightened tensions in the Red Sea corridor. Initial reports from British maritime security agencies suggested the vessel was hit by an unknown projectile, prompting speculation of a targeted attack.

Yemen’s Houthi Rebels, long accused of maritime assaults in the region, swiftly denied any involvement.

Al-Masirah TV, the group’s media arm, cited a source from the Houthi Ministry of Defense stating they had “no connection” to the Falcon incident Asharq Al-Awsat. The denial comes despite the attack bearing similarities to previous Houthi operations against commercial shipping.

However, intelligence sources cited by regional media have pointed to a possible Israeli role in the strike. While no official confirmation has been issued, analysts suggest the attack may be part of broader covert operations linked to ongoing regional hostilities.

The MV Falcon, still burning as of Monday evening, has become a symbol of the escalating risks facing maritime traffic in the Gulf of Aden. International naval forces, including EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, are monitoring the situation closely, with search and rescue efforts continuing for the missing sailors .

The incident underscores the vulnerability of commercial vessels in contested waters and raises urgent questions about accountability, deterrence, and the future of maritime security in the region.