THREAD: red sea

MIRACLE at SEA: Russian Survivor Rescued After Two Months Adrift

16 October 2024 — Emergency crews in Russia have saved Mikhail Pichugin, who drifted at sea for over two months in an inflatable boat. His brother and nephew tragically died during the ordeal, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The rescue happened after a fishing vessel spotted him near the Kamchatka Peninsula in the Sea of Okhotsk.

Pichugin, 46, went on a whale-watching trip with his 49-year-old brother and 15-year-old nephew in early August. They traveled to the Shantar Islands but disappeared after leaving for Sakhalin Island from Cape Perovsky on August 9. Despite initial rescue efforts, they stayed lost until Pichugin’s recent discovery by the Angel fishing vessel.

Reports say their boat’s engine failed, leaving them adrift with minimal supplies — only a small food ration and about 5 gallons of water. The fishing crew first mistook their radar blip for debris or a buoy before finding Pichugin using their spotlight. Shocked to find a starving man instead of junk, they quickly rescued him from his dire situation.

TRAGIC Migrant RESCUE in English Channel Exposes Border Crisis

13 July 2024 — Around 60 migrants were rescued by the French navy and coastguard from a capsized inflatable boat near Boulogne-sur-Mer. Four migrants were found unresponsive and could not be revived. The rescue operation is ongoing, with concerns that more victims may still be in the water.

The migrant crisis on Britain’s southern shore remains unresolved, contributing to the downfall of the previous British government. The new Labour government has promised action but has yet to deliver any meaningful results.

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, criticized the new government for its inaction following the recent deaths in the Channel. He warned that he would hold them accountable just as he did with their predecessors.

People smugglers continue to exploit desperate migrants, leading to overcrowded and dangerous crossings. This year alone, 19 people have died attempting to cross the English Channel, while 14,000 have successfully made it across — a nearly 20% increase from last year.

IRANIAN-BACKED Houthis Attack Ship in Gulf of Aden, Injure Mariner

17 June 2024 — The Iranian-backed Houthis launched two anti-ship cruise missiles, striking the M/V Verbena in the Gulf of Aden off Yemen. The attack set the ship on fire and severely injured one civilian mariner. U.S. Central Command reported that the mariner was flown to another ship for medical treatment by a U.S. helicopter based on the USS Philippine Sea.

The M/V Verbena, a Palauan-flagged, Ukrainian-owned, and Polish-operated bulk cargo carrier, was en route from Malaysia to Italy carrying wood when it was attacked. Central Command confirmed that the crew is still fighting fires on board. This incident marks another escalation in the Houthis’ campaign amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Earlier reports from British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center and private security firm Ambrey indicated that a vessel had been attacked and caught fire after making a distress call about being struck by a missile. The Houthis typically delay claiming responsibility for such attacks by hours or even days.

This attack follows another incident where Houthis launched a boat-borne bomb against a commercial ship in the Red Sea on Wednesday. The rebels have been targeting shipping throughout this strategic corridor as part of their ongoing conflict with a Saudi-led coalition since seizing Yemen’s capital nearly ten years ago.

ISRAEL RESCUES Hostages: Daring IDF Operation Saves Lives

08 June 2024 — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) successfully rescued four hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attacks. This marks the largest hostage recovery operation since the war with Hamas began in Gaza. The hostages, held for 246 days, included Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Shlomi Ziv, and Andrey Kozlov.

The rescue operation targeted two Hamas buildings above ground. Noa Argamani’s abduction had become a symbol of the October 7 Hamas terror attack, with footage of her kidnapping widely circulated.

The IDF shared a video showing the dramatic moment they freed three of the four hostages. This successful mission underscores Israel’s commitment to bringing its citizens home safely from terrorist captivity.

ISRAEL RESCUES Hostages in Daring Gaza Operation

08 June 2024 — Israel conducted its largest hostage rescue operation since the latest conflict with Hamas began, freeing four individuals from central Gaza. The military raid in Nuseirat resulted in the rescue of Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv. All hostages were taken for medical checks and reunited with their families after 246 days in captivity.

The operation was marked by heavy air and ground assaults, leading to significant casualties among Palestinians. At least 94 Palestinians were reported dead, including children, with over 100 wounded brought to local hospitals. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant praised the mission as “daring” and “brilliantly executed.”

Noa Argamani’s abduction had drawn widespread attention due to a video showing her screaming for her life during her capture at a music festival. Her mother’s plea for her release had also garnered significant media coverage. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue fighting until all hostages are freed.

The aftermath saw nearly 100 Palestinian bodies taken to Al-Aqsa Hospital amid ongoing military activity in the area. AP reporters witnessed the grim scene as smoke rose and armored vehicles moved through Nuseirat and Deir al-Balah areas. The conflict continues to exact a heavy toll on both sides as Israel remains committed to securing its citizens from terrorist threats.

ISRAEL DEFIES US Warnings, Ramps Up Military Strike in Gaza’s Rafah

12 May 2024 — Israel has escalated its military actions in Rafah, Gaza, despite U.S. cautions. The Israeli military ordered tens of thousands to leave the area immediately. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari confirmed that the operations targeted and eliminated numerous militants. This aggressive stance persists even amid international concerns about rising civilian casualties and disruptions to humanitarian aid efforts.

Global protests have ignited as Israel alleges Hamas militants are consolidating in northern Gaza following seven months of ongoing conflict. The United Nations warns that intensifying military activities in Rafah might severely impact humanitarian initiatives and increase civilian fatalities. The closure of the Rafah border crossing complicates aid delivery, heightening regional tensions further.

President Joe Biden has explicitly denied supplying offensive weaponry for operations in Rafah, pointing to credible evidence that Israel might be violating international laws designed to protect civilians during conflict situations. On the other hand, Israeli authorities maintain they adhere strictly to these laws and have implemented advanced warning systems to reduce civilian casualties before launching operations

The crisis deepens as over 1.4 million Palestinians find themselves displaced within Rafah’s confines due to recent evacuations moving populations into areas already heavily affected by conflict. Aid organizations are overwhelmed trying to manage under these challenging circumstances.

HOUTHI MISSILE Strike on US and Israeli Vessels Heightens Maritime Tensions

26 April 2024 — The Houthis have targeted three ships, including a U.S. destroyer and an Israeli container ship, heightening tensions in crucial maritime routes. Houthi spokesman Yahya Sarea announced plans to disrupt shipping to Israeli ports across multiple seas. CENTCOM confirmed the attack involved an anti-ship missile aimed at the MV Yorktown but reported no casualties or damage.

In response, U.S. forces intercepted four drones over Yemen, identified as threats to regional maritime safety. This action highlights ongoing efforts to protect international shipping lanes from Houthi hostilities. The situation remains tense with continued military engagements in this key area.

An explosion near Aden has underscored the unstable security conditions impacting maritime operations in the region. British security firm Ambrey and UKMTO have observed these developments, which align with increased Houthi hostility towards international shipping following the onset of the Gaza conflict

PORT CRISIS Triggered by Baltimore Bridge Collision: Full Recovery Weeks Away, Temporary Channels Opened

02 April 2024 — The MV Dali’s catastrophic collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge continues to wreak havoc on Baltimore’s port operations. The primary shipping channel, designed to handle large Evergreen A-class container carriers, is still obstructed by remnants of the bridge. However, a smaller secondary route has been temporarily opened for use.

This new pathway is not dredged and only reaches a depth of 11 feet. It passes under the first standing span of the destroyed bridge. The Tugboat Crystal Coast marked its inaugural journey along this alternate route near the Dali container vessel site while pushing a fuel barge. This narrow passage will primarily serve barges and tugs involved in clean-up operations.

Governor Wes Moore from Maryland has revealed plans for another temporary channel south of the disaster area with a marginally deeper draft at 15 feet. Despite these advancements, obstacles and limited air drafts continue to hinder full port reopening efforts. Rear Admiral Gilreath from Coast Guard has stressed that reinstating access to the central deep water channel remains his main concern.

The incident has forced significant changes in East Coast ports as they accommodate cargo redirected from Baltimore harbor. Salvage specialists are now tasked with clearing debris from what was once an integral bridge serving thousands daily. With six people feared dead and two survivors rescued from Patapsco River

HEROIC Navy Seals SACRIFICED in Iranian Weapons Seizure: Four Arrested

23 February 2024 — Four individuals of foreign nationality have been charged after a vessel was intercepted in the Arabian Sea. The U.S. Navy seized the ship, which was allegedly carrying Iranian-made weapons.

In a devastating turn of events, two brave Navy SEALs lost their lives during this operation. The fallen warriors were identified as Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Christopher J. Chambers and Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nathan Gage Ingram.

David Sundberg, Assistant Director of the FBI Washington Field Office, stated that these charges serve as a stern warning to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He stressed that any hostile actions from foreign governments will not go unchecked by the U.S..

The FBI and other U.S Government agencies pledge to persistently disrupt attempts by hostile foreign entities aiming to instill fear and inflict harm through violent means.

US NAVY SAVES the Day: Huthi Missile Attack on Oil Tanker Thwarted

18 February 2024 — The Huthis, a rebel group based in Yemen, announced that they had targeted a British oil tanker, named the Pollux, in the Red Sea using missiles. The US Central Command (CENTCOM), however, clarified that this vessel is actually Danish-owned and registered in Panama.

CENTCOM confirmed that from areas of Yemen under Huthi control, four anti-ship ballistic missiles were launched. It was reported that at least three of these missiles were directed towards MT Pollux.

In reaction to this looming threat, CENTCOM successfully executed two self-defence strikes against one mobile anti-ship cruise missile and one mobile unmanned surface vessel located in Yemen. This incident happened just as Washington’s reclassification of the Huthis as a terrorist group became official along with related sanctions.

This event underscores the importance of vigilance and quick action in maintaining security on international waters. It also highlights Washington’s commitment to combating terrorism globally.

ISRAELI FORCES Strike: Hostage Intelligence Sparks Daring Hospital Raid

15 February 2024 — Israeli special forces executed a targeted operation at the largest hospital in southern Gaza. The action was prompted by reliable intelligence suggesting that Hamas was using the facility to harbor Israeli hostages. Described as a “limited” operation by IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari, it did not necessitate the forceful evacuation of medical staff or patients.

It remains uncertain if any remains were discovered, but Israel has confirmed the apprehension of several Hamas suspects operating within the hospital’s premises. Earlier this week, IDF officially reached out to the director of Nasser Medical Center, demanding an immediate cessation of all Hamas terrorist activities within its walls and insisting on the expulsion of all terrorists present.

The IDF’s statement during this operation disclosed that their intelligence originated from multiple sources including freed hostages. They suggested that not just Nasser Hospital but also Shifa Hospital, Rantisi Hospital, Al Amal Hospital and others across Gaza have been systematically exploited by Hamas as terror bases.

Last month saw a released hostage publicly declare that she along with over two dozen other captives had been held in Nasser Hospital. This raid occurs amidst heightened tensions in the region following recent Israeli airstrikes carried out in Lebanon after a lethal Hezbollah attack.

RUSSIAN Oil Tanker ENGULFED: Houthi Missile Strike Sparks Fear in Gulf of Aden

30 January 2024 — A Houthi missile strike recently ignited a Russian oil tanker, the Marlin Luanda, in the Gulf of Aden. The vessel was carrying Russian naphtha when it was targeted. The attack resulted in a fire breaking out in one of the cargo tanks. Fortunately, the blaze was put out promptly and no crew members were injured.

The incident prompted immediate reactions from other vessels in the area. Another oil tanker quickly reversed its course to escape potential danger. Meanwhile, U.S Central Command (CENTCOM) took action to neutralize an imminent threat posed by a Houthi anti-ship missile towards merchant and U.S Navy vessels operating nearby.

The attack has had economic repercussions as well, causing a 1% surge in oil prices due to concerns over potential disruptions to oil flow through the Red Sea region. This event marks the most severe Houthi assault on oil tankers till date and serves as a stark reminder that even Russian oil is not safe from Yemen’s Iran-backed insurgents’ attacks.

Interestingly, despite targeting a vessel carrying Russian cargo managed by London-based Oceonix Services Ltd., Houthis claimed their target was actually a “British ship”. This discrepancy could potentially fuel geopolitical tensions moving forward.

US STRIKES BACK: Protecting Commercial Ships from Houthi Missiles in Yemen

18 January 2024 — The US has launched strikes on roughly a dozen missiles owned by the Houthi rebels in Yemen, an official stated. These missiles were reportedly being primed to target commercial ships navigating the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

This move comes after a previous US strike on a stockpile of anti-ship ballistic missiles, owned by the Houthis. The action was taken in direct retaliation to a missile fired at US vessels present in the Red Sea.

Houthi forces have openly claimed responsibility for ongoing attacks on merchant vessels and have issued threats against US and British ships. Their campaign is part of their support for Hamas against Israel.

This recent attack by the Houthis is the first one acknowledged by the US since they initiated strikes last Friday. This follows weeks of relentless assaults on shipping within the Red Sea region. Stay tuned as we continue to provide updates on this developing story.

US-Owned Ship UNDER FIRE: Houthi Rebels Escalate Red Sea Tensions

16 January 2024 — In a recent escalation of Red Sea tensions, Houthi rebels launched a missile attack on a U.S.-owned ship, the Gibraltar Eagle. The strike occurred off Yemen’s coast in the Gulf of Aden and comes less than a day after an anti-ship cruise missile targeted an American destroyer in the same area. Responsibility for these attacks has been claimed by the Houthis, following American-led strikes against rebel forces.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that this latest attack happened approximately 110 miles southeast of Aden. The captain of the ship reported that a missile struck the port side from above. Private security firms Ambrey and Dryad Global identified the attacked vessel as Eagle Gibraltar, registered under Marshall Islands’ flag as a bulk carrier.

The U.S military’s Central Command has confirmed this strike but reports no significant damage or injuries aboard Eagle Gibraltar which continues its voyage undeterred. Brigadier General Yahya Saree, Houthi military spokesman, took responsibility for this attack during his televised address on Monday night.

Saree declared all American and British ships involved in aggression against Yemen as hostile targets during his address. These attacks are causing disruptions to global shipping amidst Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza — impacting vital routes linking Asian and Middle Eastern energy and cargo shipments to Europe via Suez

NAVY’S Mightiest Warship USS Gerald R Ford Heads Home: Leaving Middle East Amid Rising Houthi Threats

02 January 2024 — America’s largest naval vessel, the USS Gerald R. Ford, is preparing to sail back home from the eastern Mediterranean Sea. This move comes in the wake of an attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7th and forms part of a broader assessment of global force positioning by defense authorities.

The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower will stand as the only U.S. aircraft carrier in the region, given escalating attacks by Yemen-based Houthis on commercial ships navigating Middle Eastern waters. The Houthis justify these assaults as retaliation to Israel’s military actions against Hamas in Gaza.

Over the past weekend, U.S Navy helicopters from both USS Eisenhower and USS Gravely thwarted a Houthi hijacking attempt in Southern Red Sea, sinking three out of four boats involved after responding to a distress signal from Maersk Hangzhou.

In light of intensifying threats from Houthis, an international task force has been established by U.S military to protect commercial vessels navigating these volatile waters. The Biden administration continues to assert that Iran is providing intelligence support to Houthis for these attacks.

OPERATION PROSPERITY Guardian: Biden’s Strategy Crumbles as Houthis Successfully Target Maersk Ship

31 December 2023 — Despite the Biden administration’s strategy to deter Houthi attacks, it seems to be falling short. The Times of Israel has reported a missile strike on a Maersk container ship in the Red Sea. This marks the first successful attack since an international coalition started patrolling this crucial waterway just ten days ago.

The USS Gravely was quick to respond to a distress call from the Maersk Hangzhou, intercepting two additional ballistic missiles. US Central Command (CentCom) confirms there were no injuries and that the ship remains operational. The attack happened shortly after Denmark joined the coalition and Danish-owned Maersk decided to resume shipping through the Red Sea and Suez Canal.

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin initiated “Operation Prosperity Guardian” on December 18 with support from ten nations against Houthi attacks on shipping routes. The Houthis aim is to cut off Israel’s Red Sea port of Eilat. However, this recent attack raises serious doubts about Biden’s strategy and its effectiveness in maintaining maritime security.

ISRAEL-HAMAS Conflict: The Rising Tensions and Shocking Russian War Crime Probes

10 December 2023 — Defense reporter Mike Brest from the Washington Examiner recently delved into the intensifying Israel-Hamas conflict. He sat down with Magazine Executive Editor Jim Antle to discuss this escalating issue, which has seen a worrying increase in casualties in Gaza.

Brest didn’t stop there; he also shed light on ongoing investigations into potential Russian war crimes in Ukraine. This new development brings an added layer of complexity to an already strained global situation.

The persistent conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with Russia’s alleged misdeeds, is stirring unease across the globe. As these situations continue to evolve, they promise to have profound impacts on international relations and worldwide stability.

RED SEA Chaos: Iranian-Backed Houthis Unleash Missile Attacks on Commercial Ships, US Destroyer Strikes Back

04 December 2023 — Central Command has verified four missile attacks on three commercial ships in the Red Sea. One of these was an Israeli-owned vessel. The Houthis in Yemen initiated the attacks, but they were “fully backed by Iran,” according to a statement released Sunday. The USS Carney, a U.S. destroyer, retaliated by shooting down two drones.

The assaults started at 9:15 a.m. local time when the Carney detected an anti-ship missile launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen at the M/V Unity Explorer. This ship is flagged by Bahamas and U.K owned with crew members from two nations. However, USNI News and Balticshipping.com report that Tel Aviv-based Ray Shipping owns it.

Around noon, Carney responded to and shot down a drone also launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. Central Command stated that it was uncertain whether the drone specifically targeted CARNEY or not but confirmed no damage to the U.S vessel or injuries to personnel.

These attacks pose a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security,“ Central Command said in its statement. It added that it would consider appropriate responses ”in full coordination with its international allies and partners.

USS MASON Bravely Defends Against Pirate Attack and Dodges Yemeni Missiles: A New Threat on the Horizon?

28 November 2023 — In a daring act of valor, the USS Mason responded to a distress call from commercial vessel M/V Central Park. The Mason successfully defended against an attack by five armed pirates. After attempting to flee, the pirates were pursued and apprehended by the Mason’s crew. The Pentagon has suggested that these pirates are likely of Somali origin, not Houthi.

As the rescue operation was winding down, two ballistic missiles were launched from areas in Yemen under Houthi control. These missiles landed approximately 10 nautical miles away from both the USS Mason and M/V Central Park. Fortunately, no damage or injuries have been reported.

This missile attack could signify an escalation of aggression by Iran-backed forces towards U.S. assets in this region. While there has been a recent increase in drone and missile attacks on U.S bases and troops stationed in Iraq and Syria by Iran-backed groups, this marks a new development with ballistic missiles being directed at U.S ships.

The vessel under attack, M/V Central Park flies under Liberia’s flag but is managed by an Israeli firm owned by Israel’s Ofer

GAZA CITY Under Siege: Israeli Forces Advance Amid Rising Tensions and Humanitarian Crisis

09 November 2023 — Reports emerged on Wednesday that Israeli ground forces are closing in on Gaza City from various directions. This maneuver has sparked a widespread civilian evacuation, with essential supplies like food and water becoming increasingly scarce. The urban strife between Israel and Hamas is escalating rapidly.

The Israeli military remains reticent about their specific troop movements but promises a decisive response to Hamas’ deadly assault inside Israel on October 7th. Locals report that Israeli forces have penetrated the inner neighborhoods of Gaza City amidst intense bombardment.

Violent confrontations have erupted near Shifa, the largest hospital in the territory, which has become a critical point in this conflict. The Israeli military asserts that Hamas’ primary command center operates from within this hospital complex, accusing high-ranking leaders of using the facility as a protective shield.

Both Hamas and hospital personnel vehemently deny these allegations, suggesting they serve as an excuse for an attack on the medical facility. For Palestinians in Gaza, Shifa symbolizes civilian hardship during this war. The hospital is inundated with injured individuals while struggling with limited electricity and medical supplies amidst hosting tens of thousands of displaced people.