A cargo ship was attacked southwest of Balhaf, Yemen, approximately 88 nautical miles from the coast, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incident occurred when six armed individuals approached the vessel in a small boat, leading to an exchange of gunfire between the attackers and the ship’s armed security team. The small boat later turned away, and authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.

UKMTO confirmed the event in a statement posted on social media platform X, noting that the confrontation ended when the attackers withdrew. No further details about casualties or damage have been released so far. Authorities have advised vessels operating in the area to maintain maximum vigilance.

The attack adds to ongoing security concerns for commercial shipping routes near Yemen, prompting renewed caution among maritime operators navigating the region.