In a decisive move, US Central Command (CENTCOM) forces carried out self-defense strikes on Wednesday against two Houthi mobile anti-ship cruise missiles, poised to launch against ships in the Red Sea. According to a statement released on Thursday, the strikes aimed to thwart potential threats to maritime security in the region.
The first strike occurred later in the day, precisely at 11:30 p.m. (Sanaa time), targeting a Houthi mobile land attack cruise missile that was on the verge of being launched. The statement emphasized the importance of these actions in preventing potential harm to vessels navigating the Red Sea.
The Houthis initiated their targeting of Red Sea shipping in November, citing their attacks as a response to what they claimed were Israel-linked vessels. They asserted their support for Palestinians in Gaza, affected by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
In response to the Houthi aggression, both US and UK forces have undertaken strikes against the group. Subsequently, the Houthis declared US and British interests as legitimate targets. The situation remains tense as the international community monitors developments in the region closely.
