US Sailors from the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group render assistance to distressed mariners at sea in the Red Sea, June 15. (Image source: DVIDS)
In a coordinated response to a recent surge of attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, the United States and partner forces have destroyed multiple Houthi radar sites and drones, according to an update statement by US Central Command (CENTCOM) released on Monday, June 17.
This action comes on the heels of a separate CENTCOM report detailing the Iranian-backed Houthis’ missile attack on cargo ships M/V Tutor and M/V Verbena last week.
Recap on the Houthi Attacks
On June 12, Iranian-backed Houthi rebels targeted the M/V Tutor, a cargo ship flagged by Liberia and owned and operated by Greece. They used an unmanned surface vessel (USV) to attack the ship, causing significant damage to the engine room and flooding.
Tragically, one crew member is still missing. The remaining crew abandoned the ship and were thankfully rescued by a combined force, including the USS Philippine Sea (CG 58). The M/V Tutor is currently adrift in the Red Sea, taking on water.
In a separate incident on June 13, the M/V Verbena, a cargo ship flagged by Palau, owned by Ukraine, and operated by Poland, was struck by two missiles from the Houthis.
Adding further fuel to the fire, a separate CENTCOM update revealed that an Iranian frigate, the IRIN Jamaran, was positioned a mere eight nautical miles from the M/V Verbena when the distressed cargo ship issued a distress call.
The report scathingly criticized the Iranian vessel for failing to respond and render assistance.
The M/V Verbena’s crew was ultimately rescued by another vessel, the M/V Anna Meta, after being forced to abandon ship due to uncontrollable fires ignited by the Houthi attack.
In a coordinated response to a recent surge of attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, the United States and partner forces have destroyed multiple Houthi radar sites and drones, according to an update statement by US Central Command (CENTCOM) released on Monday, June 17.
This action comes on the heels of a separate CENTCOM report detailing the Iranian-backed Houthis’ missile attack on cargo ships M/V Tutor and M/V Verbena last week.
Recap on the Houthi Attacks
On June 12, Iranian-backed Houthi rebels targeted the M/V Tutor, a cargo ship flagged by Liberia and owned and operated by Greece. They used an unmanned surface vessel (USV) to attack the ship, causing significant damage to the engine room and flooding.
Tragically, one crew member is still missing. The remaining crew abandoned the ship and were thankfully rescued by a combined force, including the USS Philippine Sea (CG 58). The M/V Tutor is currently adrift in the Red Sea, taking on water.
In a separate incident on June 13, the M/V Verbena, a cargo ship flagged by Palau, owned by Ukraine, and operated by Poland, was struck by two missiles from the Houthis.
Adding further fuel to the fire, a separate CENTCOM update revealed that an Iranian frigate, the IRIN Jamaran, was positioned a mere eight nautical miles from the M/V Verbena when the distressed cargo ship issued a distress call.
The report scathingly criticized the Iranian vessel for failing to respond and render assistance.
The M/V Verbena’s crew was ultimately rescued by another vessel, the M/V Anna Meta, after being forced to abandon ship due to uncontrollable fires ignited by the Houthi attack.
“This continued malign and reckless behavior by the Iranian-backed Houthis threatens regional stability and endangers the lives of mariners across the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden,” CENTCOM stated.
CENTCOM Response to Houthi Threats
The following day, CENTCOM reported it successfully struck two Houthi USVs in the Red Sea and one uncrewed aerial system (UAS) launched from a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen in response to these assaults.
It also detailed the destruction of seven Houthi radars in Yemen, along with two Houthi USVs (drone boats) and a single Houthi drone operating over the Red Sea.
The report further stated that these actions were necessary to deter future attacks and safeguard vital shipping lanes.
“It was determined these systems presented an imminent threat to US, coalition forces, and merchant vessels in the region,” CENTCOM wrote in a social media post. “This action was taken to protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for US, coalition, and merchant vessels.”
Escalating Tensions Threaten Regional Stability
These developments paint a picture of a rapidly escalating situation in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
The Houthis’ attacks on commercial shipping, coupled with the Iranian frigate’s inaction, raise serious concerns about regional stability and the safety of civilian vessels traversing these crucial waterways.
CENTCOM’s decisive response signals a solid commitment to safeguarding maritime security and holding the Houthis accountable for their actions.
The international community will undoubtedly be watching closely as this situation unfolds.
—
Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States
Scrubba Wash Bag
Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.
Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.
COMMENTS
There are
on this article.
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.