Red Sea tension skyrockets: Houthi militants fire ballistic missile at commercial ship
In a sensational development, the U.S. military has accused Iranian-backed Houthi militants in Yemen of launching a ballistic missile at a container ship in the strategically vital Red Sea. This alarming incident occurred on Thursday, marking the latest provocation that has significantly heightened tensions in the region.
A Targeted Attack in a Critical Waterway
The missile, fired from a Houthi-controlled area in Yemen, was aimed towards the international shipping lane north of the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. This narrow waterway, separating Yemen from the northeast coast of Africa, is a crucial artery leading into the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Miraculous Escape: No Injuries or Damage Reported
Despite the severity of the attack, there were no reported injuries or damage. However, in a threatening move, the Houthis hailed the M/V Maersk Gibraltar, the vessel targeted in the attack, warning of further missile strikes.
Iran-Backed Houthi Rebels Escalate Maritime Warfare in Strategic Red Sea Waters
A Pattern of Aggressive Acts
This latest incident follows a series of aggressive actions by the Houthi militants. They have previously launched missiles and drones targeting ships in the region and have even seized a merchant vessel, showcasing their support for Hamas in the conflict with Israel. The attack on the Maersk Gibraltar represents the third such incident since Sunday, amplifying concerns over the security of commercial shipping in this vital waterway.
The U.S. Navy’s Vigilant Response
The U.S. Navy has been actively responding to these provocations. Just recently, the American destroyer USS Mason assisted a Norwegian chemical tanker in the southern Red Sea, downing a Houthi drone headed towards it. In recent weeks, U.S. Navy ships have engaged Houthi missiles and drones, protecting both Israel and commercial vessels.
Building a Multinational Naval Task Force
The United States is now in discussions with partner nations to establish a multinational naval task force to secure commercial shipping near Yemen. This initiative builds upon the existing Task Force 153, which involves 39 nations focusing on maritime security in the Red Sea, Bab el Mandeb, and the Gulf of Aden. Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder from the Pentagon emphasized the ongoing process to determine the participating countries and their contributions to this critical task force.