On November 25, 2023, an Israeli-owned cargo ship, the "Symi," was targeted in a suspected Iranian drone attack in the Indian Ocean. The ship, managed by an Israeli company called Zodiac Maritime, was struck by a drone that caused a small fire but did not result in any casualties. The attack was initially reported by an unnamed U.S. official.
According to reports, the drone attack occurred around 7:30 am local time while the Symi was sailing from Tanzania to India. The exact location of the attack was not disclosed, but it is believed to have taken place near the coast of Yemen. The Symi is the third Israeli-owned ship to be attacked in the region in recent months, following attacks on the Mercer Street and the Asphalt Princess.
While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, it is widely believed to be the work of Iran. The Israeli government has been blaming Iran for the recent attacks on its ships, alleging that Tehran is using its proxy groups to carry out the attacks as part of its ongoing conflict with Israel.
In response to the attack, Israel's Foreign Ministry accused Iran of "trying to disrupt Israeli shipping," and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett warned that Israel would "not just talk" but take action to protect its security interests.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran following the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The Israeli government has been increasingly concerned about Iran's regional influence and its support for proxy groups throughout the Middle East.
The attack on the Symi has drawn international attention, with several countries condemning the incident and expressing support for Israel's right to defend itself. The United States has also condemned the attack and vowed to hold those responsible accountable. The Israeli-owned ship's attack highlights the growing threat posed by Iran to maritime security in the region.
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