USCENTCOM Takes Defensive Action Against Houthi Attacks in Gulf of Aden
In a response aimed at safeguarding the “freedom of navigation,” U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) reported on Sunday that Houthi rebels launched an anti-ballistic missile toward an oil and chemical tanker in the Gulf of Aden. The incident occurred on Saturday, with the missile ultimately hitting the water and failing to cause any harm to the vessel, named M/V Torm Thor, or its crew.
According to the official statement posted on X, USCENTCOM revealed that the Iranian-backed Houthis likely intended to target the U.S.-owned and flagged tanker during its voyage in the Gulf of Aden. The attack reportedly took place at 11:45 p.m. local time.
In a proactive measure, USCENTCOM forces took defensive action at around 9 p.m. by intercepting two one-way unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) over the Red Sea. Additionally, a third UAV, on its way to the region, experienced an in-flight failure and crashed.
USCENTCOM clarified, “CENTCOM forces identified the UAVs and determined they presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and to the U.S. Navy ships in the region.” The statement emphasized that such actions are taken to ensure the protection of freedom of navigation and enhance the safety of international waters for both U.S. Navy and merchant vessels.
Despite ongoing efforts by the U.S. and its allies to shield merchant ships, Houthi attacks persist in the region. On Thursday, the rebels fired two anti-ship ballistic missiles into the Gulf of Aden, impacting the MV Islander—a cargo carrier flagged in Palau and owned in the U.K. The attack resulted in one minor injury and damage to the vessel.
This recent incident follows the Houthis’ downing of a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone off the Yemeni coast on Monday, marking the second such attack since November 2023. In another episode, Houthi terrorists targeted a Greek-flagged ship carrying grain to Yemen, causing minor damage. Despite this, the U.S.-owned M/V Sea Champion continued its course to Aden, delivering humanitarian aid for the Yemeni people.
Central Command highlighted the M/V Sea Champion’s consistent efforts in delivering aid to Yemen, having done so 11 times over the past five years despite facing adversities. The series of attacks underscores the volatile situation in the Gulf of Aden and the ongoing challenges faced by vessels navigating the region.