Tanker Explosion Near Yemen Raises Alarms for Red Sea Shipping

A recent incident involving the LPG tanker FALCON has heightened security concerns for shipping in the Red Sea. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that on the weekend, approximately 116 nautical miles east of Aden, Yemen, the vessel was struck by an unknown projectile, resulting in a significant fire onboard. UKMTO later issued updates indicating they had not yet confirmed the source of the explosion and could not rule out the possibility of an onboard accident.

As investigations continue, the alert has been reclassified as an advisory. The Cameroon-flagged FALCON was carrying 26 crew members, including 1 Ukrainian and 25 Indians, and was en route to Djibouti when the explosion occurred, leaving the ship adrift. The European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) coordinated a successful search and rescue operation, with the gas carrier MEDA rescuing 24 crew members. The Hellenic Frigate HS SPETSAI escorted MEDA to the Port of Djibouti, where the rescued seafarers were handed over to the Djiboutian Coast Guard. Unfortunately, two Indian crew members remain missing.

The FALCON continues to burn and remains adrift, prompting authorities to advise nearby vessels to maintain a safe distance due to the risk of further explosions. The tanker was fully loaded with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), increasing the potential danger.

A private salvage company has taken over operations to secure the vessel. Martin Kelly, Head of Advisory at EOS Risk Group, noted on social media platform X that the FALCON may be part of what the United Against Nuclear Iran organization refers to as the “Ghost Armada,” which tracks illicit maritime trade connected to Iran. According to Kelly, “FALCON is probably carrying Iranian cargo.” Further investigation by TankerTrackers revealed that the vessel was laden with Iranian LPG from Assaluyeh and was likely heading to Ras Isa, Yemen, to supply the Houthis.

This incident marks a significant moment for maritime security in the region. The FALCON, which is over 31 years old, had previously been detained in January 2025 in Istanbul due to 13 deficiencies and reportedly has no known insurer. If confirmed as a Houthi attack, this would be the first such incident since the Minervagracht was struck in the Gulf of Aden on September 29, and the first Houthi-related assault since the recent U.S.-brokered Israel-Hamas agreement on hostage releases.

Since November 2023, the Iranian-backed Houthis have reportedly conducted over 100 attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, primarily in support of Palestinians amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. On Sunday, Kelly highlighted recent developments that could indicate renewed threats to maritime operations. He noted violations of key conditions of the Gaza ceasefire, including attacks by Hamas against the Israeli Defense Forces and Israel’s intensive airstrikes across Gaza, as well as the halting of humanitarian aid.

Kelly warns that it may not be long before the Houthis resume attacks against shipping, stating, “There is a distinct possibility of targeting Israel, and potentially broader threats to maritime activity.” As a precautionary measure, vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO.

The ongoing situation surrounding the FALCON underscores the fragile security environment in the region and the importance of vigilance for those operating in these waters.