Missile fired from Yemen strikes second cargo ship in Red Sea, US official says

A U.S. defense official told the Associated Press Friday that a ballistic missile fired from rebel-held territory in Yemen struck a Liberian-flagged cargo ship in the Red Sea near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, where numerous incidents have unfolded in recent days. 

The official identified the vessel as the MSC Palatium III and said it remained unclear if anyone was hurt. The missile apparently was aimed at the Al Jasrah, which was set on fire by a projectile earlier Friday, the official said. Another missile launched in the salvo missed both ships. 

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen – who have claimed responsibility following other attacks on ships this week -- did not immediately acknowledge either attack. 

The Al Jasrah is operated by German-based shipper Hapag-Lloyd, which said no crew member had been hurt in that attack. 

“Hapag-Lloyd will take additional measures to secure the safety of our crews,” the company said, without elaborating.