(Reuters) — Yemen’s Houthi militia, backed by Iran, has claimed responsibility for launching a missile attack on a container ship bound for Pakistan in the Red Sea and attempting to target Israel with drones.

The attacked vessel, MSC United VIII, operated by MSC Mediterranean Shipping, reported no injuries to its crew. The ship, en route from King Abdullah Port, Saudi Arabia, to Karachi, evaded the attack by taking evasive maneuvers after informing a nearby coalition naval warship.

Simultaneously, Israel reported intercepting a hostile aerial target in the Red Sea area. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea confirmed the group’s involvement, stating that they targeted the MSC United after the crew allegedly ignored warnings. Additionally, the Houthis claimed a military operation targeting Eilat and other Israeli areas, without specifying if the attacks were successful.

The U.S. Central Command reported that 12 drones, three anti-ship ballistic missiles, and two cruise missiles fired by the Houthis were intercepted by U.S. fighter jets, a navy destroyer, and other assets in the Red Sea, with no damage or injuries reported.

The Houthis, in control of much of Yemen, have targeted commercial vessels in the Red Sea since October, claiming Israeli links or routes to Israel, expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

Two explosions involving missiles and drones near a vessel were earlier reported by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Authority off the Yemeni coast in the Red Sea, with no injuries reported.

These incidents follow the U.S. announcement of a multinational maritime security initiative in the Red Sea in response to Houthi attacks on vessels. Some shipping lines have suspended Red Sea operations, opting for a longer route around Africa.

The Houthis continue to vow attacks until Israel ceases its conflict in Gaza and warn of targeting U.S. warships if the militia faces retaliation.