US destroys 7 anti-ship missiles, 3 UAVs and 3 weapons depots in Yemen
US CENTCOM Forces Destroy Anti-Ship Missiles and Drones in Red Sea
In a recent statement posted on the social media account of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), it was revealed that US forces intervened and destroyed 7 anti-ship missiles, 3 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and 3 weapon storage containers in areas controlled by the Houthis. The intervention was carried out under the guise of self-defense, as these weapons were deemed to pose a threat to commercial ships in the region and the US Navy.
The statement emphasized that the primary aim of this intervention was to protect the freedom of navigation and ensure the safety of international waters for the US Navy and commercial vessels. The ongoing attacks by the Houthi rebels, who are backed by Iran in Yemen, have disrupted maritime trade routes in the Red Sea for several months.
Since October 31, 2023, the Houthis have been targeting commercial ships, claiming they are affiliated with Israeli companies, in retaliation for Israeli attacks in Gaza. Several vessels have been attacked using drones and missiles, prompting many shipping companies to suspend their operations in the region.
In response to the escalating situation, the US announced the formation of a multinational maritime task force called “Operation Welfare Guardian” on December 18, 2023. This task force, comprised of a coalition of countries, aims to counter the threat posed by the Houthi forces to global maritime trade security.
US forces have intercepted missiles and drones launched from Yemen on multiple occasions, highlighting the volatile nature of the conflict in the region. The European Union also launched the Aspides mission on February 19 to enhance navigation safety in the Red Sea, with Italy assuming tactical command on March 5.
The Suez Canal, which connects the Mediterranean to the Red Sea, is a critical chokepoint for global trade, facilitating approximately 12 percent of all maritime trade between Europe and Asia. The ongoing security challenges in the region underscore the need for international cooperation to safeguard this vital waterway.
