Houthis warn Israel ships are its ‘legitimate target’, Israel reacts
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A screen grab from footage released by Yemen’s Houthi rebels shows how they seized the ship
Yemen: Yemen's Houthi rebels on Monday said that ‘Israeli ships are legitimate targets for us anywhere’.
The seizure of Israel-linked cargo vessel Galaxy Leader and its 25 international crew on Sunday ‘opened a new dimension’ to the Gaza war, according to news agency AFP.
The Houthis who call themselves as part of the "axis of resistance" launched drones and missiles towards Israel, further escalating the situation.
Major General Ali Al-Moshki of Houthis told the group’s Al-Massirah TV station that Israeli ships are their legitimate targets and ‘we will not hesitate to take action.’
The British owned ship Galaxy Leader with links to Israeli businessman Abraham "Rami" Ungar is operated by a Japanese firm.
The Houthis earlier claimed they captured the ship as a retaliation for Israel's war against Hamas.
Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdul-Salam said Sunday said the ship’s seizure was only ‘the beginning’, pledging more maritime attacks.
Houthi operatives boarded the ship by rappelling down from a helicopter after the Iran style of capturing ship in the Strait of Hormuz, AFP reported citing maritime security company Ambrey.
The vessel, heading from Turkey to India, transports cars and other vehicles, which is listed as Britain's Ray Car Carriers.
Israel military termed the ship’s seizure as ‘very grave incident of global consequence.’
Responding to the incident, US military official said it is "a flagrant violation of international law".
Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa sought Saudi Arabia, Oman, Iran and other countries to urge the Houthis to release the vessel and crew members, adding that Japan will ‘directly’ approach the group.