Yemen's Houthi forces have released new footage showcasing their ability to target commercial shipping in the Red Sea, as US forces expand their regional presence, reports Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.

The Houthis claim responsibility for more than 100 attempted attacks on merchant vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Oman, sinking four ships and killing at least 18 seafarers. One vessel, the tanker Marlin Luanda, later renamed Boccadasse, burned for nearly a day before being saved.

In the video, the Houthis explained their rationale for striking Marlin Luanda, operated by a British firm under charter to Trafigura. The cargo of Russian-origin naphtha was described as having military applications, prompting the rebels to deem the voyage a violation of their blockade on nations allied with Israel.

A single anti-ship ballistic missile hit the tanker forward of the wheelhouse, sparking a cargo fire but causing no injuries. The US destroyer USS Carney, French frigate Alsace and Indian destroyer INS Visakhapatnam responded, with Indian sailors boarding the vessel to help extinguish the blaze. IMO later honoured the crew with the Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea.

The Houthis' video threatened further retaliation, claiming 228 ships had been targeted during what they called the Battle of the Promised Conquest. Analysts said the timing of the release coincided with rising US-Iran tensions, as Tehran cracked down on domestic protests and Washington threatened strikes.

The US has begun a military buildup in the region, with the carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and her strike group entering the Central Command area. Observers warned that renewed Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping could follow if hostilities escalate, just as commercial traffic is beginning to return to the route.