U.S. Strikes Target Houthi Positions in Yemen Amid Rising Tensions

U.S. military forces struck Houthi-controlled targets in Yemen, destroying drones, a control station, and missiles. The strikes came after the Houthis claimed attacks on a container ship and U.S. destroyers. CENTCOM cited threats to regional stability as a reason for the strikes. No U.S. vessels were confirmed hit.

U.S. military forces have carried out strikes on Houthi-controlled targets in Yemen over the past 24 hours, according to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). The operation resulted in the destruction of two drones, a ground control station, and three anti-ship cruise missiles.

The strikes follow claims by the Iran-aligned Houthi movement that it had attacked a container ship in the Red Sea and two U.S. destroyers in the Gulf of Aden. CENTCOM's statement underscored that the weapons posed a 'clear and imminent threat' to U.S. and coalition forces as well as regional merchant vessels.

However, U.S. officials have not corroborated the Houthi claims of attacks on U.S. warships, emphasizing the ongoing threat to crucial shipping routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The frequency of such attacks has led shippers to seek longer, more expensive routes around southern Africa, complicating international shipping logistics and costs.

(With inputs from agencies.)