US and UK Navies Team Up to Defend Against Houthi Attack on Red Sea Shipping
The UK and US naval forces have joined forces to repel the largest attack yet by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on Red Sea shipping. According to UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, carrier-based jets and warships were able to successfully shoot down 21 drones and missiles launched by the Iran-backed group overnight.
The Houthis claimed to be targeting a US ship in retaliation for the killing of rebels who attempted to attack a container ship last month using speed boats. However, Mr Shapps stated that he has “no doubt” that Iran is heavily involved in such attacks.
When asked about potential Western strikes on Houthi targets in response, Mr Shapps replied, “Watch this space.” This statement suggests that further action may be taken to deter future attacks.
Houthis’ History of Targeting Commercial Shipping in the Red Sea
According to the US military, the Houthis have already carried out 26 attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea since November 19th. However, many of these claims have been proven false, with the group often using the pretext of targeting ships linked to Tel Aviv in protest of Israeli actions during the Gaza war.
Details of the Attack and Successful Defence
The US military reported that the attack involved Iranian-designed one-way attack drones, anti-ship cruise missiles, and anti-ship ballistic missiles launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen towards international shipping lanes in the southern Red Sea. However, F/A-18 warplanes from the USS Dwight D Eisenhower aircraft carrier and four destroyers, including HMS Diamond, were able to successfully shoot down the majority of these threats.
According to a defence source, HMS Diamond alone shot down seven Houthi drones using its Sea Viper missiles and guns. Each missile costs over £1 million, highlighting the significant cost of defending against such attacks.
No Injuries or Damage Reported
Fortunately, no injuries or damage were reported as a result of the attack or defence. This is a testament to the effectiveness of the US and UK navies’ efforts in protecting the Red Sea shipping lanes.
Houthi Military Spokesman Confirms Operation
Houthi military spokesman Yahya al-Sarea later confirmed that their forces had carried out the operation, involving a large number of ballistic and naval missiles and drones. He claimed that the target was a US ship providing support for Israel and that the attack was in response to the US’ “treacherous assault” on their naval forces.
Mr Sarea also stated that the Houthis will continue to prevent Israeli ships or those heading towards occupied Palestine from navigating in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea until the end of the Israeli aggression in Gaza and the lifting of the blockade.
To learn more about the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the role of the Houthi rebels, click here. For more information on the US Navy’s presence in the Red Sea, click here.
