Maritime security

Iran warned that any attempt by the US to establish an international naval coalition "will be faced with extraordinary problems."

A cargo ship was hit by an unknown object, sparking a fire, off the coast of Yemen.

Ambrey said the ship had reported a group claiming to be the "Yemeni Navy" had demanded the change in course.

The Houthi statements and widespread coverage of this issue in their media show they are using Gaza as a new rallying cry; they want to potentially distract from problems at home, and show strength.

American and French navies have strengthened their presence in the Red Sea to protect vessels from the risk of seizure or attack by the Houthis.

There was no damage to US Navy vessels or injuries to US personnel in the attack, said the US official, who declined to be named.

Convoys of ships coming from the south were being diverted along the original branch of the canal, the canal authority said.

The report did not state what countries the vessels or the crew were from.

The Houthi movement claimed that it was not acting under a directive by Iran when it seized the ship.

The underwater unit worked to defuse any devices which were suspected to contain explosive material.