World · India Bureau
Saudi forces target boat carrying Indian nationals in Red Sea
Yemeni Houthi rebels claim Saudi Arabia struck a vessel carrying 14 Indian citizens in the Red Sea near Socotra island. Houthi military officials say rescue operations are underway.
LSN India ·
Yemen's Houthi militant group alleged on Wednesday that Saudi Arabian forces attacked a boat transporting Indian nationals in the Red Sea, drawing immediate rescue efforts from the insurgent group.
According to a Houthi military spokesman, the vessel was carrying 14 Indian citizens when it came under fire near Socotra island in the strategic waterway. The group has launched rescue operations to assist those aboard, the spokesman said.
The incident marks another escalation in the conflict-ridden Red Sea, where Houthi forces and Saudi-led coalition aircraft have repeatedly clashed. The waterway remains a critical shipping corridor, with Indian nationals frequently transiting the region for work and commerce.
There was no immediate response from Saudi Arabia or Indian authorities regarding the alleged strike. The Indian government typically monitors such incidents closely, particularly when nationals are potentially at risk in regional conflict zones.
The Red Sea has witnessed heightened tensions in recent years, with multiple parties engaged in military operations affecting commercial shipping and civilian movement through the area.