Houthi rebels launched missile attacks on two cargo ships off Yemen's coast near Aden, causing fires but no injuries.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency confirmed the missiles hit the vessels with no significant damage.

The rebels have been targeting ships in the region for months, impacting shipping routes.

US Navy and European warships are defending key lanes due to increased attacks.

In addition to attacks on merchant ships, the rebels fired a new solid-fuel missile named 'Palestine' at Eilat, Israel.

Concerns are raised over the detention of 11 UN employees by the rebels.

The US plans to increase economic pressure on the Houthis to block revenue sources and prevent a Saudi payment to militia-held territories.