Houthis Target US Ship in Gulf of Aden
Houthis’ Armed Forces Target US Ship in the Gulf of Aden
In a recent statement to the Houthis’ Al-Masirah television, Houthi Military Spokesperson Yahya Seri revealed that the armed naval forces targeted the ADB ship Kim Ranger in the Gulf of Aden in response to what he called the “US-British aggression against Yemen.”
Seri stated that the attack was carried out with cruise missiles, emphasizing that they hit the target precisely.
This announcement comes after the USA reported shooting down two anti-ship missile launchers in the region controlled by the pro-Iranian Houthis in Yemen.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) issued a statement indicating that “CENTCOM forces attacked two anti-ship missiles aimed at the southern Red Sea, ready to be fired in Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen.” The statement claimed the missiles were perceived as an imminent threat to commercial and US Navy ships in the region and, therefore, were shot down for self-defense.
The Houthis, backed by Iran, began seizing commercial ships off the coast of Yemen in response to Israel’s attacks in Gaza, attacking some with drones and missiles. As a result of these actions, various shipping companies opted to halt their voyages in the Red Sea.
In response, the USA announced the formation of a multinational “maritime task force” called “Operation Welfare Guardian” to counter the Houthi forces. The establishment of this task force was deemed necessary due to the threats posed to global maritime trade security.
The United Nations Security Council also weighed in on the situation, adopting a resolution calling for an immediate end to the Houthis’ attacks in the Red Sea.
With approximately 12 percent of global trade passing through the Suez Canal, the value of sustaining peace and security in this vital maritime route cannot be overstated. As tensions continue to escalate in the region, international cooperation and diplomatic measures will be crucial in mitigating further conflict.
