A Houthi drone boat packed with explosives detonated in the Red Sea on Thursday, according to the U.S. Navy, marking yet another attack by the Yemen-based group despite global demands for cessation. This incident, which resulted in no casualties or damage, follows the joint statement issued by 12 countries, including the United States, Britain, and Japan, warning the Houthis of potential “consequences” if the attacks do not stop.
In an interview yesterday, Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, the commander of U.S. Naval forces in the Middle East, provided further insights. He described the explosive-laden boat traveling about 50 miles into the Red Sea and detonating in a densely trafficked shipping lane. “It approached within a couple of miles of various ships, including merchant and U.S. Navy vessels. We all observed the explosion, though the intended target remains unclear,” Cooper explained.
The Iran-aligned Houthis, controlling much of Yemen, have persistently targeted commercial vessels with drones and missiles since Nov. 19, ostensibly in protest against Israel’s actions in Gaza. Their campaign has severely disrupted international shipping, compelling some companies to reroute around Africa, a longer and more expensive journey.
Cooper highlighted the increasing frequency and danger of these attacks, noting that there have been 25 incidents targeting merchant ships in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with no indication of the Houthis’ aggression waning.
In response to these threats, the United States and other nations initiated Operation Prosperity Guardian to safeguard civilian vessels. Cooper mentioned that the operation now involves contributions from 22 countries. To date, U.S. and allied forces have intercepted two cruise missiles, six anti-ship ballistic missiles, and 11 drones.
Additionally, Cooper recounted a recent incident where U.S. warships sank three Houthi speedboats to prevent the hijacking of a commercial vessel. Following this, a senior Biden administration official, speaking anonymously, stated, “if that happened again, we would probably do the exact same thing.” This official also emphasized the gravity of the 12-nation statement to the Houthis, suggesting that further warnings are unlikely.