A Southampton-registered cargo ship has been attacked by Yemen’s Houthi rebels.

The MV Rubymar came under a missile attack from the militant group off Yemen’s coast, according to the Government.

None of the 24-person crew - who were forced to abandon the vessel as it took on water but were rescued by a Djibouti-bound Singapore-flagged container ship - are UK or US nationals, it is understood.

The registered owner of the vessel is a company called Golden Adventure Shipping, with an address of Bow Square in Southampton.

A Government spokesperson said: “We condemn this reckless attack by the Houthis against the MV Rubymar, a Belize-flagged cargo ship.

“Current reports suggest no casualties. Nearby coalition vessels are already on the scene and HMS Richmond continues to patrol in the Red Sea to help protect commercial shipping.

“We have been clear that any attacks on commercial shipping are completely unacceptable and that the UK and our allies reserve the right to respond appropriately.”

Earlier today a Houthi military spokesperson said the Rubymar sustained “catastrophic” damage and is at risk of sinking in the Gulf of Aden.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said he would make a judgment “based on the reality on the ground” when asked if more Royal Navy ships should be sent to the Red Sea.