UAE Rescues 22 Crew Members After Red Sea Attack on Commercial Vessel
The UAE-operated vessel Safeen Prism, owned by Abu Dhabi Ports Group, rushed to help after receiving a distress call from the Magic Seas, a Liberian-flagged cargo ship. A fire had broken out onboard after the vessel was reportedly attacked with gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades, forcing the crew to abandon ship.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the incident and said the ship's onboard armed security had returned fire during the attack.
Moammar Al Eryani, Information Minister for Yemen's internationally recognized government, blamed the assault on Houthi rebels backed by Iran.
On Monday, the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that all 22 individuals aboard — including the crew and security team — were safely rescued. The mission was carried out in coordination with UKMTO and other international maritime organizations, following the highest emergency response standards.
The Kingdom of Bahrain praised the UAE's swift and professional rescue efforts. In a statement, Bahrain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack on the British-linked vessel, calling it a threat to international navigation and the global shipping industry.
Bahrain urged the international community to step up efforts to secure maritime routes, protect civilian lives at sea, and uphold global peace and security in accordance with international law.
This rescue highlights the growing maritime risks in the region and the urgent need for international collaboration to protect vital trade routes and civilian vessels navigating through the Red Sea.
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