The Houthi missile and drone attack targeting U.S. Navy ships in the Red Sea was unsuccessful, confirming no damage to American vessels. This attack was in response to recent U.S. airstrikes in Yemen, which had significant consequences for the Houthis. President Trump and military officials underscored the need for a strong response against Houthi aggression and Iranian influence in the region.
The recent Houthi missile and drone attack aimed at U.S. Navy vessels in the Red Sea was reported unsuccessful, according to a U.S. official who spoke with ABC News. This attack was a response to escalating U.S. airstrikes targeting the militant group in Yemen. The Houthis had asserted that they launched 18 ballistic missiles and a drone at the USS Harry S. Truman but the accuracy of their claims has been disputed.
The U.S. official revealed that a total of 11 drones and one ballistic missile were fired by the Houthis, none of which successfully struck any American ships. All drones were intercepted by U.S. Air Force and Navy aircraft, while the ballistic missile did not reach its intended destination, falling short of U.S. vessels. The Houthis aimed to retaliate following new U.S. military actions against them.
This escalation follows a series of American airstrikes described by President Trump as “decisive and powerful military action” against the Iranian-backed Houthis. The U.S. strikes, which targeted various military assets in Yemen, resulted in 53 fatalities and 98 injuries, as reported by the Yemeni Health Ministry. This operation is seen as an opening salvo intended to convey a robust message to Iran.
In speaking about the operation, Trump expressed confidence regarding the lack of concern for further retaliatory actions from the Houthis, while National Security Adviser Mike Waltz emphasized that the strikes aimed at eliminating key Houthi leaders and holding Iran accountable for their actions. The Houthis, in a statement, declared their intention to obstruct Israeli ships in their operational zone until the blockade of Gaza is lifted.
In summary, the Houthi missile and drone attack on U.S. Navy vessels in the Red Sea was unsuccessful and illustrates the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iranian-backed groups. Following U.S. airstrikes in Yemen, the Houthis have attempted to retaliate but failed to meet their targets. The U.S. military has responded robustly, resulting in significant Houthi losses, while U.S. officials maintain that actions against the Houthi leadership will continue until objectives are achieved.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
