US and UK forces came together to repel what has been described as the largest attack yet by Yemen’s Huthis in the Red Sea. In a joint operation, the Western allies shot down over 20 drones and missiles launched by the Iran-backed rebels. The attack was successfully intercepted by warships and planes, with HMS Diamond, a British destroyer, employing her guns and Sea Viper missiles to protect both herself and commercial shipping in the area. The international community has condemned these illegal attacks, warning the Huthis of the consequences they will face if they continue. The Huthis claim to be targeting Israeli-linked vessels in support of Palestinians in Gaza. This incident highlights the ongoing conflict in the region and the threat it poses to global trade and stability.
It is reported that the US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated the Huthis launched a complex attack involving drones, anti-ship cruise missiles, and an anti-ship ballistic missile. A combination of F/A-18 warplanes and US destroyers, along with the British naval vessel, successfully neutralized the threat. This development follows the establishment of a multinational naval task force last month, mainly led by the US, to protect Red Sea shipping from Huthi attacks. The Red Sea is a crucial transit route responsible for facilitating up to 12 percent of global trade. The frequent attacks by the Huthis put commercial vessels at risk and have raised concerns about the broader implications on international trade and security.
This latest attack came in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The Huthis, who control a significant portion of Yemen, have joined other groups in the region opposing Israel as part of the so-called axis of resistance. The violence in the Gaza Strip has triggered a surge in attacks led by armed groups in the Middle East that are against Israel. It is reported that the United States has been under constant fire from drone and rocket attacks in Iraq and Syria, believed to be carried out by Iran-backed armed groups. The complexity and scale of these attacks raise fears of a wider regional conflict involving Iran. To avoid a worst-case scenario, the United States has taken decisive action by targeting pro-Iran commanders and providing support to its allies.
The ongoing conflict and the Huthis’ repeated attacks pose a significant challenge to regional stability and the security of international trade. As global tensions escalate, it is crucial for the international community to address these issues diplomatically and avoid further escalation. The United States, along with its allies, has made it clear that it will take the necessary actions to protect innocent lives and the global economy. The region remains on high alert as tensions continue to rise, and the world closely watches the situation unfold in the Red Sea.
