A Houthi spokesman said Monday that the bulk carrier MV Star Iris was American-owned.
But public data show it is actually Greek-owned, and was bound for Iran with a cargo of corn.
Since Iran is seen as the Houthis' main backer, that was a surprise.
Previously, the Houthis have said they were targeting vessels linked to Israel, or backers like the U.S. and UK.
They say that's in solidarity with Hamas militants over the conflict in Gaza.
Now some think the new attack could be meant to show they are not beholden to Iran after all.
There was no comment on the strike, or that suggestion, from Tehran.
Others have said the choice of target could simply have been a mistake over the vessel's ownership.
The attacks have roiled global commerce, with many freighters forced to take safer but much longer routes.
This week saw dramatic evidence of the impact, with thousands of animals disembarking in Australia after six weeks stuck at sea.
A cargo ship carrying 14,000 sheep and 2,000 cattle was ordered back to port after being unable to proceed through the Red Sea.
That's just the latest sign that the attacks are delaying or halting the delivery of goods to global markets.
