Yemen's Houthi Rebels Launch Drones and Missiles at US Navy Warships in Red Sea

The US Navy confirmed that two of its warships were targeted by Houthi rebels in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The attacks involved drones and missiles but were unsuccessful. Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stated that the USS Stockdale and USS Spruance, both destroyers, faced at least eight drones, five anti-ship ballistic missiles, and three anti-ship cruise missiles on Monday. Fortunately, there was no damage or injuries reported.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a crucial maritime route connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It facilitates the passage of goods worth approximately USD 1 trillion annually. The Houthis have been attacking vessels in this region for months due to ongoing conflicts involving Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as Israel's actions in Lebanon.

Houthi Attacks on Commercial Vessels

Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed responsibility for the attacks on the American destroyers through a prerecorded statement. Additionally, reports emerged of a commercial ship being attacked in the southern Red Sea, about 130 kilometres southwest of Hodeida, a port city controlled by the rebels. The UK Maritime Trade Operations centre confirmed that no one was injured during these incidents, and the ship continued its journey.

Since October 2023, when the Gaza conflict began, Houthis have targeted over 90 merchant ships using missiles and drones. They have seized one vessel and sunk two others, resulting in four sailor deaths. Despite their claims of targeting ships linked to Israel, the US, or the UK, many attacked vessels have no ties to these countries.

Allegations of Extortion

A UN panel has accused the Houthis of extorting shipping companies for safe passage through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The rebels allegedly demand around USD 180 million monthly from shippers to avoid attacks. Although these claims are unverified, they highlight the ongoing threats to maritime security in the region.

The Houthis have also downed several American MQ-9 Reaper drones. Their last known maritime attack occurred on October 28 against the Liberian-flagged bulk tanker Motaro. Earlier in October, they targeted another Liberian-flagged vessel, Olympic Spirit.

US Military Response

The US military has responded with airstrikes targeting Houthi positions and infrastructure. On October 17, B-2 stealth bombers were deployed to strike underground bunkers used by the rebels. These actions aim to counteract Houthi aggression in the region.

The Houthis' attacks have decreased recently, though they continue to launch missiles towards Israel. The reasons behind this reduction remain unclear. Meanwhile, UN experts reported that "the Houthis allegedly collected illegal fees from a few shipping agencies to allow their ships to sail through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden without being attacked." However, this information remains unverified.

The Houthis have not directly addressed these allegations but have sent threatening emails to shippers. One such vessel was later attacked by them. The situation remains tense as international efforts continue to ensure safe passage through these vital waterways.