The US reported a second distress call within 24 hours from the Maersk Hangzhou in the Red Sea, stating that Houthi rebels fired upon US Navy helicopters providing assistance.
In response, the helicopters sank three boats, eliminating the rebels.
The incident occurred at 6:30 a.m. Sanaa time on Sunday, following a previous missile strike on the container ship at 8:30 p.m. Sanaa time on Saturday.
The USS Eisenhower and USS Gravely helicopters intervened in the second attack, with the small boats firing upon them.
The fourth boat fled, and there were no reported casualties or damage to US personnel or equipment.
This event is part of a series of more than 20 Houthi attacks on international shipping since November 19, leading to the formation of a maritime task force by the US and other nations in response to Red Sea threats.
