U.S. Strikes Houthi Targets, Including Underwater Vessel

The U.S. Central Command has confirmed that it conducted a series of five strikes against Houthi militia vessels, including what appears to be the first use of an unmanned underwater vessel in recent attacks, in areas of Yemen controlled by the Iranian-backed militant group.

The strikes, which took place between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. local time on Saturday, targeted three anti-ship cruise missiles, an unmanned surface vessel, and the aforementioned unmanned underwater vessel, according to Central Command. The decision to strike was made after the targets were identified as presenting an imminent threat to surrounding U.S. Navy and merchant ships.

Notably, the unmanned underwater vessel is the first of its kind used by the Iranian-backed militant group since it began its attacks in the Red Sea on October 23, according to Central Command.

This development comes amidst increasing tensions in the region. U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Brad Cooper revealed on CBS News’ “60 Minutes” on Thursday that Iranian Revolutionary Guard troops are working on the ground in Yemen with the rebel group.

The Yemen-based Houthi group, believed to be primarily funded by Iran, has been targeting ships in the Red Sea since October, reportedly in solidarity with Hamas amid its conflict with Israel. These attacks have had significant repercussions, disrupting international trade. Companies like Tesla, Volvo, and others have announced delays and production issues as a result.

In response to these attacks, the U.S. and 13 other countries called for an “immediate” end to the hostilities on January 3. Subsequently, the U.N. Security Council adopted a resolution a week later demanding an end to the attacks and the return of a seized cargo ship. On January 10, a major Houthi attack targeting the Red Sea was narrowly thwarted by U.S. and U.K. forces. In light of these events, Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned of consequences for further attacks.

Despite these warnings, the Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi reportedly vowed a “big response” to any military action from the U.S. or its allies. In response to continued attacks, the State Department designated the group as a terrorist organization on January 17.

The conflict has since escalated, with three servicemembers losing their lives in an attack on a U.S. military base in Jordan. In retaliation, the U.S. targeted Iran-linked groups across Yemen, Iraq, Syria, and the Red Sea earlier this month.

The situation remains fluid and is being closely monitored by the international community as tensions in the region continue to escalate.