An Italian Navy destroyer has successfully intercepted and shot down two Houthi-operated drones in the Red Sea, reaffirming Italy’s commitment to protecting freedom of navigation and safeguarding commercial vessels in the region.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed the incident, stating that the destroyer “Caio Duilio,” deployed as part of the European “ASPIDES” operation, neutralized the two drones. This marks the second such incident in as many days, following the downing of another drone on March 2.
The Italian Navy’s actions align with the broader efforts of the US-led coalition, which recently conducted airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen in response to a drone attack on a commercial ship in the Red Sea.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the coalition strikes targeted two Houthi-controlled underwater drones and 18 missiles, aiming to deter further attacks on maritime traffic.
CENTCOM also reported that Houthi forces launched two anti-ship ballistic missiles from their controlled areas towards the commercial vessel “Pinocchio” in the Red Sea. Fortunately, the attack was intercepted, and no casualties or material damage were reported.
Public databases maintained by maritime intelligence firm “Equasis” and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) indicate that “Pinocchio” is a Liberian-flagged container ship owned by “O.M.-M.A.R.5” and registered in Singapore.
The ongoing threats posed by Houthi drones in the Red Sea have prompted international condemnation and calls for de-escalation. Diplomatic efforts are underway to find a peaceful resolution to the Houthi conflict and ensure the safety of maritime navigation in the region.
