USS Mason Repels Iranian Backed Houthi Attack in Southern Red Sea

 

The USS Mason of the Navy intercepted and neutralized a drone and an anti-ship ballistic missile in the Southern Red Sea, fired by Houthi rebels, according to the U.S. Central Command on Thursday.

The incident took place between 5:45 p.m. and 6:10 p.m. local time in Sanaa, as confirmed by U.S. officials.

This marks the 22nd attempted assault on international maritime vessels since October 19, as reported by CENTCOM. No damages or injuries were reported in this occurrence, which has become a routine challenge for U.S. vessels patrolling the Red Sea, aiming to establish and maintain order amidst the ongoing conflict between Hamaz and Gaza. Presently, there are 18 vessels operating in the region, and none have sustained damage from the nearly two dozen assaults.

Most of the weaponry used in these attacks, targeted at allied ships or in their proximity en route to Israel, have been linked to Iranian-backed factions, such as the Houthis, as indicated by CENTCOM.

In response to the threat posed by the Houthi militia, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on groups that have aided Iran with weaponry or financial support. Additionally, the multinational Operation Prosperity Guardian has been initiated to counter the escalating Houthi assaults.