Houthi Drone Attack on Oil Tanker MV Chem Pluto Sparks Regional Tensions Off India’s Coast
A Liberian-flagged oil tanker, the MV Chem Pluto, came under drone attack in late November 2023 while sailing 400 km off India’s west coast. The strike, linked to Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, has intensified tensions in the region, drawing military responses from the US and UK against Houthi-held areas.
The incident began on 23 November when a drone targeted the MV Chem Pluto, which was transporting crude oil from Saudi Arabia’s Al Jubail port to India’s New Mangalore port. The ship, with 21 crew members aboard, later reached Mumbai under the protection of the Indian Coast Guard.
The Pentagon directly accused Iran of orchestrating the attack, while the Indian Navy’s explosive ordnance disposal team confirmed drone involvement after inspecting the vessel. The strike coincided with broader Houthi rebel operations in the Red Sea, aimed at disrupting shipping routes in solidarity with Gaza. In response, the Indian Navy deployed P-8I long-range patrol aircraft and warships to monitor the Arabian Sea. Meanwhile, the US and UK launched retaliatory strikes against Houthi-controlled territories, escalating regional tensions further.
The MV Chem Pluto safely docked in Mumbai after the attack, but the incident has heightened concerns over maritime security in the region. With Houthi rebels continuing to target Red Sea shipping lanes, naval patrols and international military responses remain in place.
