The United States executed another set of attacks against Houthi rebels in Yemen, destroying three anti-ship missiles in the Red Sea. Confirming the action, the White House stated, “This morning, US forces conducted three successful self-defence strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. This is the fourth preemptive action that the US military has taken in the past.”
The US Central Command disclosed that the attack occurred at approximately 6:45 pm after identifying an imminent threat posed by the anti-ship missiles to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region. The strike aimed to protect freedom of navigation and prevent potential attacks on maritime vessels.
In a related incident on Thursday, the Houthis launched two anti-ship ballistic missiles at the US Ship Chem Ranger, resulting in no reported injuries or damages. Prior to this, US forces had targeted 14 Houthi missiles loaded for firing in Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen.
The US characterized these actions as part of ongoing multinational efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation and prevent attacks on US and partner maritime traffic in the Red Sea. The designation of the Houthis as a “terrorist” organization was recently announced by the US, citing their continuous attacks and threats to shipping. The sanctions accompanying the designation will take effect after 30 days.
Despite the designation, the Houthis asserted that it would not impact their operations to prevent Israeli ships or vessels heading to Israel from crossing the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The group, supportive of the Palestinian armed group Hamas, initiated these attacks in response to Israel’s actions in Gaza, causing disruptions in trade between Asia and Europe and raising concerns among major world powers.
