Yemen’s Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for a series of missile attacks aimed at U.S. naval vessels operating in the Red Sea, escalating tensions in one of the world’s most strategically vital waterways. The group issued a statement confirming the strikes, stating they were in retaliation for what they described as continued American involvement in the region.
According to preliminary reports, multiple projectiles were launched toward U.S. ships, though no direct hits or casualties have been confirmed by the Department of Defense. U.S. military officials acknowledged the attempted attacks and said the vessels activated defensive systems in response, with some of the missiles intercepted.
The incident marks the latest in a string of hostile actions by the Iran-backed rebel faction, which has increasingly targeted international and commercial maritime traffic in recent months. The Red Sea, a critical global shipping route, has seen a rise in regional instability amid ongoing conflict in Yemen.
Pentagon officials are closely monitoring the situation and have not ruled out a military response. The U.S. has maintained a naval presence in the region to safeguard maritime operations and deter further aggression against international shipping.
The Houthis, who control large parts of northern Yemen, continue to assert that their attacks are defensive actions against what they view as foreign interference. Meanwhile, global powers are expressing concern over the group’s expanding reach and its potential impact on regional security.
Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict remain underway, but the latest strikes have added urgency to discussions about a coordinated international response to protect freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.