CENTCOM: Houthis in Yemen fired 3 anti-ship ballistic missiles toward US-flagged vessel

CENTCOM stated in a post on the X social media platform that the Houthis fired 3 anti-ship ballistic missiles toward a US-flagged commercial cargo ship sailing in the Gulf of Aden at approximately 14:00 local time.

The statement noted that one of the missiles fell into the sea, while the other 2 were neutralized by the USS Gravely warship.

The statement indicated that the US-flagged commercial cargo ship sustained no damage and there were no injuries.

CURRENT SITUATION IN THE RED SEA

The Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen began seizing commercial ships they claimed were linked to Israeli companies off the coast of Yemen on October 31, 2023, in response to Israel's attacks in Gaza, and have also launched drone and missile attacks against some of them.

US forces have announced multiple times during this period that they have shot down missiles and kamikaze drones launched from Yemen.

Following the Houthis' actions, numerous shipping companies decided to suspend their voyages in the Red Sea.

On December 18, 2023, the US announced the creation of a multinational "maritime task force" called "Operation Prosperity Guardian" with the participation of a group of countries, citing threats to global maritime trade security.

On December 31, 2023, 3 Houthi speedboats attempting to seize a ship linked to Israel in the Red Sea were fired upon by US helicopters.

On January 10, the Houthis announced that a US ship had been targeted in the Red Sea with missiles and kamikaze drones on the grounds that it was supporting Israel.

On January 11, the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution submitted by the US and Japan demanding an immediate end to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.

Approximately 12 percent of global trade is conducted through the Suez Canal, which connects the Mediterranean to the Red Sea and offers the shortest route between Europe and Asia.

News Source: AA