In a show of strength and resilience, U.S. warships navigated the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait in the Red Sea were targeted by Yemen's Houthi rebels earlier this week. The Pentagon announced on Tuesday that the U.S. forces successfully intercepted and shot down a series of drones and missiles launched by the Houthis, ensuring the safety of the vessels.
According to Pentagon spokesperson Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder, the attack involved at least eight drones, five anti-ship ballistic missiles, and three anti-ship cruise missiles. The U.S. warships, including an aircraft carrier and two destroyers, effectively neutralized the threat without sustaining any damage.
The Houthis, however, claimed responsibility for two separate military operations against the naval vessels in both the Red and Arabian Seas. Their spokesperson, Yahya Sarea, stated that the assaults lasted for eight hours and targeted the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, although Ryder confirmed that the carrier was not impacted during the incident.
This confrontation underscores the ongoing tensions in the region and the strategic importance of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital chokepoint for international maritime traffic. The successful defense by U.S. forces highlights their commitment to maintaining stability and ensuring the free passage of ships through these critical waterways.
As global attention remains focused on the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics, the ability of U.S. naval forces to effectively counteract and defend against such attacks plays a crucial role in upholding international security and supporting allied nations.
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Pentagon: U.S. warships repelled attack from Yemen's Houthis
cgtn.com
