On Sunday, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that US forces successfully neutralized three drones launched by the Houthi rebels in Yemen, targeting the Red Sea area.
CENTCOM confirmed that there were no injuries or damage to US, coalition, or merchant vessels as a result of this intervention. The command assessed that the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) posed a direct threat to coalition forces and merchant ships operating in the region.
This defensive action was aimed at safeguarding freedom of navigation and enhancing safety and security for all vessels navigating these international waters.
The Houthis have been responsible for numerous missile and drone strikes on merchant ships in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea since November 19, 2023, targeting vessels they believe are associated with Israel or bound for Israeli ports.
The United States leads an international coalition to protect maritime traffic in this crucial corridor, which is vital for 12% of global trade.
