Israel-linked Tanker Seized Off Yemen in Third Such Assault

Attackers seized a tanker linked to Israel off the coast of Yemen on Sunday, authorities said. The Turkish-captained vessel has a multinational crew consisting of Russian, Vietnamese, Bulgarian, Indian, Georgian and Filipino nationals. It is carrying a full cargo of phosphoric acid, said the ship operator Zodiac Maritime.

While no group immediately claimed responsibility, it comes as at least two other maritime attacks in recent days have been linked to the Israel-Hamas war. The Liberian-flagged Central Park was seized in the Gulf of Aden, said the company and private intelligence firm Ambrey.

An American defence official, speaking on condition of anonymity, also confirmed to The Associated Press that the attack took place. Zodiac called the seizure a suspected piracy incident. “Our priority is the safety of our 22 crew onboard,” Zodiac said in a statement.