The US military has successfully intercepted a missile fired from a Houthi-controlled area in Yemen towards the USS Laboon in the Red Sea.
The incident occurred off the coast of Hudaydah, and there were no reported injuries or damage during the Sunday afternoon event.
This interception follows recent joint US and UK strikes in Yemen aimed at degrading the military capabilities of the Houthis.
The strikes, conducted on nearly 30 locations, targeted arms depots, logistical hubs, and air defense systems.
A subsequent US strike on a Houthi radar site took place on Saturday.
President Joe Biden has expressed a willingness to take further measures to protect people and international commerce if necessary.
Similarly, the UK states its preparedness to launch additional actions against the Houthis.
Houthi supporter Hussain Al-Bukhaiti warned on Sunday that fighters would target US and UK battleships if strikes on Yemen continued.
The Houthis, a political and military group controlling a significant part of Yemen, including the capital, have been targeting Red Sea cargo ships since November 19.
These attacks, at least 27 in total, have disrupted a vital trade route, causing major economic repercussions.
The group claims to be targeting vessels heading to or owned by Israel, in solidarity with the people of Gaza.
However, some of the ships attacked have no clear connection to Israel.
Major shipping companies have diverted vessels away from the Red Sea, affecting the global economy.
Companies like Tesla, Volvo Cars, Tesco, and Ikea have reported suspensions, warnings of price increases, and potential supply disruptions due to the ongoing situation.
The combination of Houthi attacks, along with the US-UK strikes in Yemen, raises concerns about the conflict’s broader impact on the Middle East, particularly fears of its spread beyond Gaza.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak highlights the Houthi attacks as a significant factor causing disruption to a crucial trade route and contributing to rising commodity prices.
