Dramatic footage has emerged showing US warships launching a series of missile strikes on Iranian-backed Houthi targets in the Red Sea. The missiles, fired from USS Gravely and USS Carney, were aimed at neutralizing an “imminent threat” to American ships in the region. The US Central Command released a statement confirming that the strikes were in self-defense, targeting a Houthi land attack cruise missile and four anti-ship cruise missiles that were ready to be launched against ships in the Red Sea.
The US military action was a joint effort with British forces, responding to escalating tensions in the Middle East. The strikes targeted 36 Houthi sites across 13 locations, using laser-guided Tomahawk missiles, Paveway bombs, F/A-18 fighter jets, Reaper drones, and destroyers. The strikes were a direct response to the ongoing missile and drone attacks against commercial and military ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
The US has also conducted strikes against Iran-backed militant groups in Iraq and Syria, and there are indications that more action is yet to come. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated that the recent attacks were just the beginning of the US response, with more steps planned, some of which may go unseen. These actions are aimed at protecting freedom of navigation and ensuring the safety of US Navy vessels and merchant vessels in international waters.
A Yemeni official issued a fresh threat, this time targeting Italy, if the strikes continue. The official urged Italy to remain neutral in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and exert pressure on Israel to halt its attacks on Gaza. Italy recently joined a European Union Red Sea naval mission to protect ships from Houthi attacks.
The Houthi rebels, who now control most of Yemen, have been causing havoc in the Red Sea, turning it into an active warzone. Their attacks, fueled by their allegiance to Hamas, have disrupted global sea traffic and driven up shipping prices. The rebel group has been relentless in its drone and missile attacks on ships connected to Israel and has vowed to continue until Israel ends its offensive in Gaza.
The recent strikes by the US and its allies demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of international waters. As tensions continue to escalate in the region, it is clear that further action will be taken to protect American interests and maintain stability in the Middle East.
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