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Since September 6, 2025, multiple subsea fiber-optic cables in the Red Sea near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have been cut, causing widespread internet slowdowns and increased latency across the Middle East, South Asia, and parts of Africa. Key cables affected include SEA-ME-WE-4, IMEWE, and FALCON GCX. Microsoft and NetBlocks confirm traffic rerouting but warn of ongoing delays. The damage coincides with regional tensions involving Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
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A Dutch-flagged cargo ship, Minervagracht, was hit by an explosion in the Gulf of Aden, injuring two crew members and causing a fire. The attack, attributed to Houthi rebels, marks a significant escalation in their targeting of shipping amid ongoing regional tensions and the Gaza conflict.
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On November 6, 2025, Somali pirates attacked and seized the Malta-flagged tanker Hellas Aphrodite in the Indian Ocean, over 1,000 km off Somalia’s coast. The 24 crew members locked themselves safely in the ship’s citadel. The pirates, armed with machine guns and RPGs, reportedly operate from a hijacked Iranian fishing boat. EU naval forces are responding amid rising piracy linked to regional instability.
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Yemen's Houthis have indicated a pause in their attacks on shipping and Israel, aligning with the Gaza ceasefire. However, they have not officially declared an end to their campaign, warning of resumption if Gaza is attacked again. The group’s actions have impacted Red Sea shipping and detained UN staff.
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The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia's Afar region erupted on Sunday, sending ash clouds across Yemen, Oman, India, and Pakistan. No casualties reported, but villages are covered in ash, affecting livestock and travel. The eruption is the first in 12,000 years, with ongoing regional impacts.
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Houthi rebels announced the release of 10 mariners, including Filipinos and Indians, after claiming Oman took custody of them. The ships targeted in recent attacks, which have sunk vessels and killed mariners, saw a temporary ceasefire during the Gaza conflict. The situation remains tense with ongoing maritime threats.