By Faruk Zorlu
ANKARA (AA) – The US destroyed unmanned aerial systems launched by Yemen’s Houthi group, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Thursday.
"Between 6:00 and 10:56 p.m. (Sanaa time) on March 28, and for the second day in a row, United States Central Command successfully engaged and destroyed four unmanned aerial systems (UAS) launched by Iranian backed Houthi terrorists in Yemen.
"These UAS were aimed at a Coalition vessel and a U.S. warship and were engaged in self defense over the Red Sea," CENTCOM said on X, adding that no injuries or damage had been reported to the US or coalition ships.
CENTCOM said it determined that the weapons posed an "imminent threat" to US Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region.
"These actions are taken to protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels," it added.
Yemen’s Houthi group has been targeting cargo ships in the Red Sea owned or operated by Israeli companies or transporting goods to and from Israel in solidarity with the Gaza Strip, which has been under an Israeli onslaught since Oct. 7.
The Red Sea is one of the world's most frequently used sea routes for oil and fuel shipments.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin recently announced the formation of Operation Prosperity Guardian, a multinational mission to combat Houthi attacks.