Underwater internet cables in Red Sea likely damaged after Houthis downed ship

A US defense official told Al Arabiya English on Wednesday that underwater internet cables in the Red Sea were likely damaged as a result of a ship that sank after Yemen’s Houthis attacked it.

A UK-owned bulk carrier, the Rubymar, sank after being attacked by the Houthis last month in the Red Sea. The ship was carrying hazardous fertilizer.

“We currently assess that the damage sustained to the undersea cables in the Red Sea is a result of the Houthis’ Feb. 18 missile attack against the M/V Rubymar, which has now sunk,” the defense official said.

After being attacked, the crew was forced to drop anchor and abandon ship, according to the official.

“Preliminary assessments indicate the anchor dragging along the seafloor is likely to have cut the undersea cables that provide internet and telecommunications service around the world,” the official said.

And ongoing Houthi attacks have hindered attempts to repair the cables.

The defense official added: “Despite their claims to the contrary, this incident highlights how the Houthis’ reckless actions can detrimentally impact others in the region.”

The Belize-registered Rubymar is the first vessel lost since the Houthis began targeting commercial ships in November. Those drone and missile assaults have forced shipping firms to divert ships to the longer route around southern Africa, disrupting global trade by delaying deliveries and sending costs higher.

The Iran-aligned Houthis, who control the north of Yemen and other large centers, say their campaign is a show of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

The Houthi attacks have prompted a series of strikes against their positions by the United States and Britain, and have led other navies to send vessels to the region to try to protect the vital Suez Canal trade route.