US forces destroy Houthi drone and vehicle threatening maritime security

US military forces have successfully destroyed a drone and a support vehicle belonging to Yemeni Houthi militants.

Over the past 24 hours, US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on X that its forces took decisive action against Houthi assets in a region under the control of the militant group, as per Caliber.Az.

Sept 6 U.S. Central Command Update

In the past 24 hours, U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) forces successfully destroyed one Iranian-backed Houthi uncrewed aerial vehicle and one support vehicle in a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen.

It was determined these systems presented a… pic.twitter.com/rHILRS1n0j

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) September 6, 2024

The drone and support vehicle were targeted because they were deemed to present a clear and imminent threat to both US and coalition forces, as well as to commercial vessels operating in the region. The statement emphasized that this operation was crucial for safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring the safety and security of international waters for US, coalition, and merchant vessels.

The recent strikes come amidst heightened tensions in the region. Since the escalation of the conflict in the Gaza Strip in October 2023, Houthi militants, with significant support from Iran, have intensified their attacks on commercial ships flying Western flags en route to the Red Sea. In response to these threats, the US and several European nations have deployed naval and air assets to the area to protect commercial shipping from terrorist attacks and to conduct operations against Houthi targets.

In late August, American forces had previously destroyed a Houthi missile and drone, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to countering threats in the region. Additionally, earlier incidents have included Houthi attacks on an oil tanker near the Yemeni city of Hodeidah, which created substantial risks of fuel spills and marine pollution. In response to this threat, US military forces had also taken action, destroying two Houthi vessels involved in the attack.