MANILA—US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported the neutralization of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) deployed by the Yemeni Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, indicating ongoing tensions in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, two UAVs were launched by the Iranian-backed Houthi faction from Yemeni territory towards the Red Sea early on March 16. US forces intercepted these aerial devices between 7:50 and 8:15 a.m., successfully destroying one while the other is believed to have fallen into the sea. Importantly, no nearby maritime vessels reported any subsequent damage or casualties.
Later the same day, between 9:00 and 10:30 p.m. local time, in a separate defensive action, US personnel dismantled an additional five unmanned surface vessels and one UAV in areas under Houthi control. These measures were described as necessary for safeguarding US interests and maintaining regional stability.
The Houthis, aligning themselves with Palestinian factions in Gaza and responding to the Israeli military campaign, have targeted Israeli and associated international shipping assets in the Red Sea, utilizing missile and drone attacks. This strategy underscores their intent to disrupt maritime activities linked to their adversaries and has prompted heightened military vigilance.
In the wake of these developments, the Houthi leadership declared their intention to treat all American and British vessels navigating the Red Sea as potential military targets, further escalating the geopolitical strain in the area. This pronouncement came amid increased involvement from the US and UK, spotlighting the broader implications for international security and maritime navigation in the contentious region.
As of the CENTCOM announcement, the Houthi representatives had not issued any official responses to the US military actions.