Reports from earlier today indicate a Netherlands-flagged cargo ship is on fire in the Gulf of Aden near Yemen, after being struck by an unidentified projectile launched by the Houthis. The UK Maritime Trade Operations has cited that “a vessel reported seeing a splash and smoke in the distance” and it’s as yet “unclear how severe the blaze was” – according to Bloomberg. A Western warship is said to be heading to the scene of the distressed cargo ship to assess to the situation, and possibly commence with rescues. As the US Navy stepped back from regional operations, Washington has pressured the Europeans to step up defense of the vital trade transit waters. #Houthis hit ship in GOA 🚨Dutch-flagged MV Minervagracht reported being hit in GOA by at least on Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile (ASBM).