A U.S. Navy vessel successfully intercepted multiple drones and missiles launched by Houthi forces from Yemen in the Red Sea today, as reported by a U.S. official. The USS Carney, an Arleigh-Burke Class destroyer, responded to distress calls from three commercial vessels that were targeted in four separate attacks. These vessels represented 14 different nations and were operating in international waters.
The first attack, which occurred around 9:15 a.m. local time, involved an anti-ship ballistic missile fired at the cargo ship Unity Explorer. The missile struck near the Bahamas-flagged, U.K.-owned bulk cargo ship, which was crewed by sailors from two nations. The USS Carney, while patrolling the area, detected and responded to the attack.
At noon, the Carney engaged and destroyed an unmanned aerial vehicle launched from Houthi-controlled areas, which was headed in its direction. The Carney also responded to an attack on the Unity Explorer at approximately 12:35 p.m. and was subsequently targeted by another UAV, which the Carney successfully neutralized.
Later in the afternoon, two more vessels, the M/V Number 9 and the M/V Sophie II, were targeted in missile attacks. The Number 9, a Panamanian-flagged carrier, reported no damage or casualties, while the Sophie II sent a distress call after being targeted by a missile.
These incidents mark the 27th confirmed attack by the Houthis, posing a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security. The United States, believing these attacks to be enabled by Iran, is considering appropriate responses in coordination with international allies and partners
