Two U.S. Navy destroyers were attacked by Houthi missiles and drones while transiting near Yemen. The vessels effectively defended against the assault, prompting U.S. air and naval forces to retaliate with airstrikes on Houthi facilities. This latest incident reflects the ongoing tensions in the region involving Iranian-backed rebels targeting international maritime activities.
On Monday, the USS Stockdale and USS Spruance, both Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers, were targeted by an aggressive assault of missiles and drones launched by Houthi forces while transiting through a strategic strait in proximity to Yemen and Djibouti. According to Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder, the vessels successfully engaged and defeated a barrage comprising at least eight uncrewed aerial system attacks, five anti-ship ballistic missiles, and three anti-ship cruise missiles. This incident is part of a larger trend of escalating hostilities in the region, with Houthi rebels, who are backed by Iran, increasingly threatening commercial vessels and U.S. naval operations aimed at safeguarding pivotal trade routes. In response to the assault, U.S. naval and air forces conducted targeted airstrikes against multiple Houthi weapon storage facilities, which allegedly contained advanced weaponry intended for operations against U.S. and international maritime traffic in the Red Sea. A Navy official confirmed that missiles from the two destroyers were utilized to intercept the incoming threats and indicated that F-35C Lightning II aircraft contributed to the subsequent retaliatory strikes. Concurrently, U.S. Central Command made reference to the operations through a social media post featuring various jets launching from the USS Abraham Lincoln, denoting an engagement against Iranian-supported Houthi units. The timing of these developments is noteworthy, occurring shortly after a separate instance in which American forces operating in Syria were attacked by other Iranian-aligned militias. Regarding claims made by Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree, who alleged that the USS Abraham Lincoln was also targeted, Ryder firmly stated, “It was not attacked, contrary to some of the allegations … by the Houthis.” This recent engagement marks the first significant incident involving U.S. naval vessels facing drone and missile threats after a stretch of relative calm following previous escalations in October 2023. Prior to this, the last public acknowledgment of a similar attack transpired in September when two additional destroyers intercepted Iranian missile threats directed at Israel. Amid ongoing combat operations against the Houthis, the Navy has recognized several vessels for their valor under enemy fire, highlighting the continued risks and challenges that U.S. forces encounter in the region. However, both U.S. Central Command and the Navy have remained reticent regarding further specifics concerning combat engagements that have unfolded in the area.
The ongoing conflict involving the Houthi rebels, who are supported by Iran, poses a significant threat to maritime security in strategically vital regions such as the waters between Yemen and Djibouti. This latest attack on U.S. naval vessels demonstrates the rebels’ capability and willingness to engage directly with American military forces, marking a continuation of hostilities that have implications for international trade routes. The U.S. military’s operations in the region have intensified in response to these threats, reflecting a broader commitment to protecting not only American assets but also international maritime commerce.
In summary, the recent attacks on the USS Stockdale and USS Spruance by Houthi forces underscore the persistent volatility in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding maritime areas. Major General Ryder’s confirmation of the successful defense measures employed by the U.S. Navy and the subsequent retaliatory strikes highlight the ongoing efforts to mitigate threats posed by Iranian-backed groups. The escalation of hostilities, particularly in light of the previously mentioned incidents involving American forces, exemplifies the complex security challenges facing the region.
Original Source: www.military.com
