US Destroyer Intercepts Houthi Missiles in Red Sea Shipping Lane

The US military reported that an American destroyer intercepted two anti-ship ballistic missiles fired from Yemen on Saturday. The attack, attributed to Iran-backed Houthi rebels, targeted international shipping in the Red Sea, marking the 23rd such illegal attack since November 19, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

The incident occurred when the USS Gravely and USS Laboon, both American destroyers, responded to a distress signal from the Maersk Hangzhou, a Singapore-flagged container ship operated by Denmark. The ship reported being hit by a missile in the Red Sea. While aiding the Maersk Hangzhou, the USS Gravely successfully shot down the missiles launched toward the ships.

CENTCOM emphasized the gravity of these repeated attacks by the Houthis, who have declared their intention to target Israel and vessels associated with it. These strikes, claimed to support Palestinians in Gaza amid Israel’s conflict with Hamas, pose a significant threat to a critical shipping lane responsible for up to 12% of global trade. In response, the United States established a multinational naval task force earlier this month to secure the safety of Red Sea shipping lanes.