US Targets 14 Houthi Missiles, Suspected to Threaten Red Sea Shipping

By | January 18, 2024

SEE AMAZON.COM DEALS FOR TODAY

SHOP NOW

US Navy Strikes Houthi Targets in Response to Ongoing Attacks on Shipping

In a recent development, the United States has launched a series of airstrikes on Houthi targets in response to the militants’ continuous attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. The strikes, which targeted 14 Houthi missiles, were carried out by Tomahawk missiles fired from US Navy vessels. The US Central Command (Centcom) described the strikes as “pre-emptive” and stated that they destroyed weapons that were about to be fired by the militants.

You may also like to watch : Who Is Kamala Harris? Biography - Parents - Husband - Sister - Career - Indian - Jamaican Heritage

This move comes shortly after the US designated the Houthis as “global terrorists,” reversing an earlier decision made during the early days of the Biden administration. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan explained that this decision was made due to the group’s relentless attacks on commercial shipping in the region.

The Houthis, who began attacking merchant vessels in November, claim that their actions are in response to Israel’s military operation in Gaza. Since then, they have launched numerous attacks on commercial tankers passing through the Red Sea, one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world.

In response to these attacks, the US and UK, along with the support of Australia, Bahrain, the Netherlands, and Canada, launched a series of air strikes on Houthi targets on January 11. However, the militants ignored an ultimatum to cease their attacks, leading to further strikes on Wednesday.

Just hours before the US airstrikes, the Houthis targeted a US-owned and operated vessel for the second time this week. Using a one-way drone, they attacked the M/V Genco Picardy in the Gulf of Aden. Fortunately, no crew members were injured, but the ship did sustain some damage. This incident followed the group’s first successful attack on an American ship since their campaign began when they hit another US vessel with a ballistic missile on Monday.

You may also like to watch: Is US-NATO Prepared For A Potential Nuclear War With Russia - China And North Korea?

The US officials have emphasized that Wednesday’s strikes were necessary to prevent imminent attacks on commercial shipping. They believe that by destroying the weapons held by the militants, they have effectively disrupted their plans.

The situation in the region remains tense as both sides continue to escalate their actions. The US and its allies are determined to protect commercial shipping in the Red Sea, which is crucial for global trade. Meanwhile, the Houthis show no signs of backing down, and their attacks on merchant vessels persist.

As the situation unfolds, it is imperative for the international community to closely monitor and address the ongoing conflict. Efforts should be made to find a diplomatic solution that can bring stability to the region and ensure the safety of commercial shipping. The US and its allies remain committed to protecting their interests and maintaining security in the Red Sea, but a long-term resolution is needed to prevent further escalation and potential humanitarian consequences.

In the coming days, the world will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds and whether any significant developments occur. The safety of commercial shipping and the stability of the region hang in the balance, making it crucial for all parties involved to approach the situation with caution and a commitment to finding a peaceful resolution..

Source

RELATED STORY.