US destroys Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile, unmanned aerial systems in Red Sea

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - The US destroyed one anti-ship ballistic missile and two unmanned aerial systems launched by Yemen’s Houthi group in the Red Sea, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said Wednesday.

“Between approximately 3:49 to 10:00 a.m. (Sanaa time) on April 3, USS Gravely (DDG 107) and United States Central Command (CENTCOM) forces successfully engaged and destroyed one inbound anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) and two unmanned aerial systems (UAS) launched by Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists from Yemen towards USS Gravely in the Red Sea,” CENTCOM said on X.

"Additionally, during this timeframe, CENTCOM forces destroyed a mobile surface-to-air missile system in Houthi controlled territory," it noted.

There were no injuries or any damage reported by coalition or commercial ships.

“It was determined that these systems presented a threat to U.S. and coalition forces and merchant vessels in the region.

"U.S. Central Command is dedicated to protecting the freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for Coalition 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 creation of a multinational mission, Operation Prosperity Guardian, to counter the Houthi attacks.