US Navy ships repel attack from Houthis in Gulf of Aden

The recent incident involving two U.S. Navy destroyers repelling an attack by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels on American ships has once again highlighted the ongoing tensions in the region. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that the USS Stockdale and the USS O’Kane successfully defeated a range of Houthi-launched weapons while transiting the Gulf of Aden on November 30 and December 1.

According to CENTCOM, the destroyers were escorting three U.S.-owned, operated, and flagged merchant vessels when they came under attack. Despite the reckless nature of the attacks, no injuries or damage to any vessels, civilian or U.S. Naval, were reported. The destroyers engaged and defeated three anti-ship ballistic missiles, three one-way attack uncrewed aerial systems, and one anti-ship cruise missile to ensure the safety of the ships, their personnel, and civilian vessels in the area.

These actions underscore the ongoing commitment of CENTCOM forces to protect U.S. personnel, regional partners, and international shipping from attacks by Iran-backed Houthis. The attack came shortly after U.S. forces conducted retaliatory strikes against Houthi weapons storage facilities in Yemen. The facilities targeted in mid-November were all located in Houthi-controlled territories and housed advanced conventional weapons used to target U.S. and other international military and civilian vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

During the operation, U.S. Air Force and Navy assets, including the F-35C stealth strike fighter, were utilized. This marked the first time the F-35C had been used in combat, showcasing the military’s capabilities in responding to threats in the region. The strikes aimed to degrade the Houthi’s ability to threaten partners in the region and maintain security in the area.

The incident serves as a reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of U.S. interests and international shipping lanes. The U.S. remains committed to protecting its personnel and allies from threats posed by Iran-backed groups like the Houthis.

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