Israeli-Linked Ship Reports Explosion Near Yanbu

An Israeli-owned vessel flying the Liberian flag reported hearing an explosion and a splash while sailing about 40 nautical miles off the Saudi port of Yanbu. The ship and its crew were unharmed, and the voyage is continuing as planned.

The incident took place on August 31, when the crew noted a loud bang and a splash close to the vessel. The captain reported the matter to United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), confirming that both the ship and crew sustained no damage or injuries.

Authorities are investigating, and UKMTO has urged ships in the vicinity to remain alert. So far, no group has been directly linked to the event.

British maritime security company Ambrey suggested that the ship could have been deliberately targeted due to its public ties to Israel. Ambrey noted that Yemen’s Houthis have been attacking Israeli-affiliated ships in the Red Sea since 2023.