In a recent confrontation in the Red Sea, the U.S.S. Carney, a U.S. Navy destroyer, successfully neutralized three drones, amidst a broader attack involving Iranian-backed Houthi militia from Yemen. This incident, occurring near several commercial vessels, signals escalating tensions in the region, following a series of attacks on American and Israeli targets. Central Command linked these aggressions to the Iranian-supported Houthis, raising concerns about a potential expansion of conflict in the area.
by Ali Hassan
The Pentagon has reported a significant defensive action by the U.S.S. Carney, a U.S. Navy destroyer, in the Red Sea on Sunday. This incident, involving the downing of three drones, marks an escalation in the ongoing tensions between the U.S. military and Iranian-backed forces in the region. The attack, beginning at 9:15 a.m., lasted several hours and posed a threat to nearby commercial shipping as well.
The Pentagon’s statement clarified that the drones were intercepted as part of a defense against an attack originating from Yemeni territories controlled by the Houthi militia, which is backed by Iran. This confrontation follows a series of hostile activities by the Houthis, targeting both Israeli and American interests in the Red Sea since early October. The U.S.S. Carney had previously engaged in defensive actions in October, countering threats from cruise missiles and drones believed to be targeting Israel.
Amid these tensions, the Houthi military spokesman, Yahya Sarea, declared the militia’s intentions to disrupt Israeli naval activities in the region. He stated their recent actions against Israeli ships in the Bab al-Mandeb strait, though he did not directly reference the engagement with the U.S. naval vessel. These developments indicate a focused effort by the Houthis to challenge both Israeli and American presence in the Red Sea.
The U.S. Central Command, while confirming the absence of injuries or damage to the U.S.S. Carney, acknowledged the complexity of the situation, with uncertainties regarding the specific targeting of the Carney by the drones. This incident underscores the broader implications of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the involvement of Iran and its proxies in the region. The Biden administration’s response, involving increased military presence near Israel, reflects the growing concern over a potential escalation into a wider conflict.
The U.S. Central Command’s statement concludes with a stern warning, attributing the drone attacks to Iranian enablement and expressing the U.S.’s readiness to coordinate appropriate responses with international allies and partners. This incident highlights the precarious balance in the region and the potential for further escalation amid ongoing hostilities.
(Associated Medias | FAD) – All rights reserved.
