(WitWave) - In a tense encounter, two American destroyers, the USS Gravely and USS Laboon, successfully intercepted two anti-ship ballistic missiles launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen. The incident occurred as the destroyers responded to a distress call from the Maersk Hangzhou, a container ship that reported being struck by a missile while transiting the Red Sea.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) labelled this as the "23rd illegal attack by the Houthis on international shipping" since November 19, emphasizing the ongoing threat to maritime activities in the region. The missiles, fired from Houthi-controlled territory, were neutralized by the USS Gravely while responding to the Maersk Hangzhou's request for assistance.
The Houthi rebels, aligned with Iran, have consistently targeted vessels in the critical Red Sea shipping lane, justifying their actions as support for Palestinians in Gaza amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. These attacks pose a significant risk to the transit route responsible for up to 12 per cent of global trade.
In response to the escalating threats, the United States recently established a multinational naval task force to safeguard shipping in the Red Sea. The move reflects the strategic importance of securing this vital maritime passage.
The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, marked by a shock cross-border attack from Gaza on October 7, has led to a surge in regional tensions. The United States promptly provided military aid to Israel, contributing to a relentless campaign in Gaza that, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, has resulted in substantial civilian casualties.
In addition to the challenges in the Middle East, U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria have faced repeated drone and rocket attacks attributed to Iran-backed armed groups, adding another layer of complexity to the region's geopolitical dynamics. The situation remains fluid as international stakeholders navigate the complexities of the conflicts and their implications for global security.
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