Cargo Ship Belonging to Israeli Businessman Seized Near Yemeni Coast with Crew Members from Georgia and Russia

Unidentified individuals have seized a cargo ship belonging to Zodiac Maritime, a company owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer, in the Gulf of Aden, as reported by Associated Press and The Times of Israel.

A spokesman for the US Department of Defense confirmed to AP that US military personnel in the region are aware of the incident and are monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, private security company Ambrey reported that US naval forces have advised vessels to stay clear of the area.

However, it remains unclear exactly who has captured the ship, as no group has claimed responsibility. Zodiac does not rule out the possibility that this incident may be a case of piracy. The company has emphasized that the priority is the safety of the crew members aboard.

The ship's crew consists of citizens from Turkey, Russia, Vietnam, Bulgaria, India, Georgia, and the Philippines. AP notes that in November, vessels associated with Israel have already been attacked twice. Previously, the Yemeni group Ansar Allah had announced intentions to target any ship owned by Israeli companies.

On November 19, it was reported that the cargo ship Galaxy Leader, linked to an Israeli businessman, had been hijacked. On November 25, AP cited a US Department of Defense source stating that a drone strike was carried out on another vessel connected to Israel.