In the latest attack by Houthi militants, the 20-year-old panamax bulk carrier, Star Iris, belonging to NASDAQ-listed Star Bulk, was targeted twice by missiles while traversing the Bab al Mandab strait. AIS data revealed the ship's departure from Brazil's Vila do Conde port on January 12 en route to Bandar Imam Khomeini port in Iran. Maritime security experts confirmed damage to the vessel's starboard side, although no crew injuries were reported. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, labeling it as accurate and direct. This marks the 51st attack on merchant ships since November, following the Houthis' alignment with Palestinians in their conflict against Israel. Notably, another Star Bulk vessel, the Star Nasia kamsarmax, suffered minor damage from a missile strike earlier. Arsenio Dominguez of the International Maritime Organization urged a multifaceted approach to resolve the Red Sea shipping crisis.