US Pentagon spokesperson Patrick Ryder confirmed that the crew of the destroyer USS Carney, operating in the northern Red Sea, successfully intercepted three ground-launched “cruise” missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) fired by Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Ryder emphasized that the precise target of the missiles could not be definitively ascertained, but it is plausible that they were aimed at targets in Israel.
During a press conference, Ryder highlighted the need to take necessary measures to protect U.S. forces following recent attacks on American soldiers in Iraq and Syria.
He noted that the deployment of US fighter aircraft in the region is being reinforced to provide additional capabilities.
The Pentagon spokesperson underscored the United States’ ability to defend its interests in the region and deter any regional escalation or expansion of the conflict initiated by Hamas.
He further noted that a US base in Syria was targeted by a drone, which was successfully neutralized, resulting in minor injuries among coalition forces led by the United States.
Ryder also mentioned that their forces successfully intercepted three drones that targeted coalition forces at the Ain al-Asad base in the western Iraqi province of Anbar.
He stated, “Washington is still working to identify those responsible for the recent attacks on our forces in Syria and Iraq.”
Previously, CNN reported that a U.S. warship, the USS Carney, had intercepted several missiles fired from the Yemeni coast on Thursday evening.
One official confirmed that the missiles were launched by the Houthi rebels, while another stated that 2 or 3 missiles were intercepted.
It is worth noting that the U.S. warship USS Carney transited the Suez Canal into the Red Sea the day before yesterday (Wednesday) as part of its mission to ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East.
