By Merve Berker
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said its forces had defeated a range of Houthi-launched weapons during their transit through the Gulf of Aden.
The US Navy destroyers USS Stockdale (DDG 106) and USS O'Kane (DDG 77) intercepted and neutralized a range of Houthi-launched weapons on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, CENTCOM said in a statement on Sunday.
It added that the destroyers were escorting three US-owned and operated merchant vessels when they were targeted by Houthi attacks.
The swift response by the destroyers ensured "no injuries and no damage to any vessels, civilian or U.S. Naval," it said.
The Navy successfully engaged three anti-ship ballistic missiles, three one-way attack uncrewed aerial systems, and one anti-ship cruise missile.
These actions safeguarded the vessels, their crews, and other civilian ships in the vicinity.
"This operation reflects the ongoing commitment of CENTCOM forces to protect U.S. personnel, regional partners, and international shipping against attacks by Iran-backed Houthis," the statement emphasized.
The Gulf of Aden remains a strategically important waterway, and incidents like these highlight the persistent security challenges in the region.