Pentagon: US Forces Sink Houthi Boats in Red Sea
U.S. Navy Helicopters Destroy Iranian-Backed Houthi Boats in Red Sea
The U.S. Navy took swift action on Sunday to protect a merchant ship in the Red Sea from Iranian-backed Houthi small boats. According to the Pentagon, three Houthi boats were destroyed by U.S. Navy helicopters after they attacked the Singapore-flagged and Denmark-owned container vessel, Maersk Hangzhou.
The distress call from the Maersk Hangzhou was its second in less than 24 hours. The Houthi boats, originating from Yemen, approached the vessel and opened fire with crew-served and small-arms weapons. However, the contracted security team on board fought back, preventing the attackers from boarding the ship.
In response to the distress call, helicopters from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and USS Gravely guided missile destroyer arrived at the scene. As the U.S. aircraft issued verbal warnings to the Houthi boats, the aggressors fired upon them. In self-defense, the U.S. Navy helicopters returned fire, sinking three of the four small boats and eliminating the hostile crews.
Fortunately, there were no casualties or damage to U.S. personnel or equipment. The fourth boat managed to escape the area. This incident highlights the ongoing threat posed by the Houthis, who have carried out numerous illegal attacks on international shipping in recent weeks.
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Operation Prosperity Guardian: Protecting Ships in the Red Sea
In response to the escalating Houthi attacks, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin launched Operation Prosperity Guardian in mid-December. This multi-national operation aims to safeguard ships in the Red Sea. Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, the top commander of U.S. naval forces in the Middle East, has warned that the Houthi attacks are likely to continue.
The Iran-backed group has even issued warnings to ships, urging them not to approach Israel as a show of solidarity with the Palestinians. This comes as Israel faces off against Hamas in the Gaza Strip following a deadly terrorist attack. The U.S. Navy remains vigilant in protecting international shipping and ensuring the safety of all vessels in the region.
What actions should the international community take to address the destabilizing role of Iran in supporting the Houthi rebels and ensure the safety of navigation in the Red Sea
Ned fire, posing a serious threat to the safety of the crew and the ship. Upon receiving the distress call, the U.S. Navy swiftly deployed helicopters to neutralize the threat and ensure the safety of the merchant ship.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the Red Sea region, where Iranian-backed Houthi rebels continue to pose a threat to merchant shipping. The Houthi rebels, who control parts of Yemen including its capital Sanaa, have been engaged in a prolonged conflict with the internationally recognized Yemeni government.
The U.S. Navy’s intervention in this incident underscores its commitment to upholding the freedom of navigation and ensuring the safety of commercial vessels in international waters. The swift response of the U.S. Navy helicopters demonstrates the readiness and capability of the U.S. military to respond effectively to protect its interests and those of its allies.
Iran’s support for the Houthi rebels is a cause for concern, as it further destabilizes the region and undermines efforts to achieve peace and stability in Yemen. The attack on the Maersk Hangzhou is not an isolated incident. Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have previously targeted commercial vessels, including oil tankers, in the Red Sea.
The international community must condemn such actions and hold Iran accountable for its support of the Houthi rebels. It is crucial for all nations to work together to address the root causes of the conflict in Yemen and find a peaceful resolution that ensures the safety and security of the region.
The successful intervention by the U.S. Navy helicopters demonstrates the importance of a strong and capable naval force in maintaining peace and security. The United States, as a global maritime power, plays a vital role in safeguarding the freedom of navigation and upholding international law.
The incident in the Red Sea serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges that commercial vessels face in navigating these troubled waters. It is imperative for shipping companies and nations to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their interests and ensure the safety of their crews.
Moving forward, it is essential for the international community to continue working towards a peaceful resolution in Yemen and address the root causes of the conflict. This includes holding Iran accountable for its support of the Houthi rebels and engaging in diplomatic efforts to bring all parties to the negotiating table.
In conclusion, the swift action taken by U.S. Navy helicopters to protect the Maersk Hangzhou from Iranian-backed Houthi boats underscores the importance of a strong and capable naval force in maintaining peace and security. It also highlights the ongoing challenges and risks faced by commercial vessels in the Red Sea. The international community must work together to address the root causes of the conflict in Yemen and ensure the safety of navigation in these troubled waters.
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