US destroys Houthi missile and launcher

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that it has destroyed a missile and a launcher located in an area controlled by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen.

In a statement made by CENTCOM on the social media platform X, it was stated that this operation, carried out within the last 24 hours, aims to eliminate threats to the US, coalition forces, and commercial vessels in the region. It was expressed that the US action was taken to protect freedom of navigation and to make international waters safer.

THE LATEST SITUATION IN THE RED SEA

The situation in the Red Sea is becoming increasingly complex. Since October 31, 2023, the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen have continued their actions of seizing commercial vessels linked to Israeli companies off the coast of Yemen and attacking some with unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles in response to Israel's attacks in Gaza. Due to these actions by the Houthis, many shipping companies have decided to suspend their voyages in the Red Sea.

Stating that global maritime trade security is under threat, the US formed a multinational maritime task force called "Operation Prosperity Guardian" on December 18, 2023, with the participation of a group of countries. Following the attacks by the US and the UK on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, the Houthis announced that they would target all ships belonging to these countries.