Unidentified Group Seizes Israel-Linked Ship in Yemen's Waters, Raising Maritime Security Concerns

A ship connected to Israel was taken by unknown attackers off the coast of Yemen. The ship, named Central Park, managed by Zodiac Maritime, faced this unexpected incident in the Gulf of Aden, marking the third attack linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Even though no group has claimed responsibility for the seizure, this incident adds to the concerns raised by recent attacks in the region related to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Zodiac Maritime described the event as a "suspected piracy incident," with a focus on ensuring the safety of the multinational crew aboard.

The ship, owned by Clumvez Shipping Inc. (according to Zodiac), is part of the Zodiac Group owned by Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer. A U.S. defense official, speaking anonymously, confirmed the attack, suggesting that an unknown armed group took control of the ship.

The ship's location, over 60 kilometers south of Yemen's coast, adds complexity to the situation. The UK Maritime Trade Operations had issued prior warnings about suspicious activity in the area, reporting military-style crafts. U.S. and coalition forces are closely monitoring the situation, urging vessels to stay clear.

Zodiac Maritime, previously targeted in a shadow war between Iran and Israel, faced a drone attack in 2021 that resulted in casualties. The recent attack on Central Park comes after another incident involving a container ship, CMA CGM Symi, owned by an Israeli billionaire, targeted in the Indian Ocean.

Both vessels had turned off their Automatic Identification System trackers, a safety protocol, indicating heightened security concerns. As the Israel-Hamas conflict persists, and a truce attempts to mitigate hostilities, the seizure of Central Park adds a new layer of uncertainty to the region's maritime landscape. The group responsible for the recent seizure remains unknown, adding to the mystery surrounding these maritime incidents.

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