Israel Strikes Houthi Ports as Red Sea Shipping Faces Major Disruption

Israel carried out airstrikes on July 7, 2025, targeting several ports and a power plant in Yemen controlled by the Houthi group. This action followed an attack on the Magic Seas, a Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned cargo ship in the Red Sea.

The ship caught fire and began to sink, forcing its crew to evacuate. Security officials linked the attack to the Houthis, citing evidence of explosive-laden drone boats.

Israel’s military said it aimed at ports used to receive Iranian weapons, which the Houthis have used to attack ships and threaten Israel.About 20 Israeli warplanes took part in the operation.

They also hit the Galaxy Leader, a ship the Houthis had seized and reportedly used for military purposes. The Houthis responded by firing missiles at Israel, but there were no reported injuries or serious damage.

Since late 2023, the Houthis have attacked over 100 merchant ships in the Red Sea, sinking at least two and killing several sailors. These attacks have forced many shipping companies to avoid the Suez Canal and take the longer route around Africa.

This detour adds up to two weeks to delivery times and has pushed shipping costs sharply higher. Container rates on Asia-Europe routes have more than doubled, reaching $8,400 per forty-foot unit in July 2025, compared to less than $3,000 before the crisis.

Red Sea Disruptions Expose Global Trade Fragility

The Red Sea is crucial for global trade, handling about 12% of all goods shipped worldwide. Attacks have caused a 66% drop in ship crossings through the Suez Canal.

Businesses now face higher costs, longer waits, and more uncertainty. Industries that rely on fast deliveries, like car and electronics makers, feel the impact most.

The Houthis, backed by Iran, control much of northern Yemen and say they attack ships to pressure Israel over the conflict in Gaza. Their actions have affected vessels from many countries, not just those linked to Israel.

Israel’s independent military response shows it is willing to act to protect its shipping and interests. The ongoing crisis exposes how regional conflicts can quickly disrupt global trade and raise costs for businesses and consumers everywhere.

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