US Central Command Neutralizes Houthi Missiles Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

US Central Command successfully destroyed Iranian-backed Houthi UAV and ballistic missiles launched from Yemen over the Red Sea, citing threats to US and coalition forces. This action follows recent escalations in West Asia, including attacks on shipping and regional instability caused by militant activities.

US Central Command announced Tuesday it successfully neutralized an Iranian-backed Houthi uncrewed aerial vehicle and two anti-ship ballistic missiles launched from Houthi-held areas in Yemen over the Red Sea. The weapons posed a "clear and imminent threat" to US and coalition forces and merchant vessels in the region, according to the statement.

"In the past 24 hours, U.S. Central Command forces successfully destroyed one Iranian-backed Houthi uncrewed aerial vehicle and two Iranian-backed Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles," the statement posted on X read. The command reiterated that these weapons represented a "clear and imminent threat to U.S. and coalition forces, and merchant vessels in the region," condemning the Iranian-backed Houthis for threatening regional stability and security.

Earlier, on August 3, the US military reported destroying another Iranian-backed Houthi missile and launcher in Yemen. The missile was deemed an imminent threat to US and coalition forces and merchant vessels. This action was part of ongoing efforts to ensure safe navigation and secure international waters.

The announcement comes amid heightened West Asia tensions following the killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah's top military commander Faud Shukr in Beirut. The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have targeted ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden multiple times since Israel's counter-offensive against Hamas began on October 7, causing significant disruptions in global trade routes.

On August 2, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered additional fighter jets and Navy ships to the region to bolster defenses. The Pentagon disclosed plans to enhance land-based ballistic missile defenses. Austin directed the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group to maintain a naval presence in West Asia.

(With inputs from agencies.)