Explosion forces crew to abandon Hong Kong-flagged container ship in the Red Sea

A Hong Kong-flagged container ship traveling through the Red Sea exploded on Tuesday, igniting a major fire that forced the crew to abandon the vessel. The incident occurred approximately 225 kilometers off the coast of Hodeida, Yemen, a city controlled by Houthi rebels. The cause of the explosion remains unclear, and the Houthis have not claimed responsibility. The crew was rescued unharmed, and the ship was carrying dangerous cargo. This event highlights ongoing risks in the Red Sea, a vital route for energy shipments and cargo between Asia and Europe.