In the Southern Red Sea, a drone launched by Houthi militants targeted an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker without causing any injuries, as reported by the US military on Saturday. The incident occurred around 8 p.m. (Sanaa time), prompting the Gabon-owned M/V SAIBABA tanker to issue a distress call. The USS LABOON (DDG 58), a US Navy destroyer participating in Operation Prosperity Guardian, swiftly responded to the call.
The USS LABOON was patrolling the Southern Red Sea between 3 and 8 p.m. local time when it intercepted the distress call. The US Central Command revealed that two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles were fired into international shipping lanes in the area from Houthi-controlled regions of Yemen. Fortunately, the tanker reported no impact from the ballistic missiles.
Additionally, the USS LABOON successfully neutralized four unmanned aerial drones originating from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, heading towards the American vessel. These recent incidents mark the 14th and 15th attacks on commercial shipping by Houthi militants since October 17, according to the Central Command.
In the context of escalating tensions, Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have declared support for Hamas and vowed to target any ships heading to Israel. Consequently, Operation Prosperity Guardian was initiated by the US, with support from countries such as the UK, Canada, France, Bahrain, Norway, and Spain. Major shipping companies, including Mediterranean Shipping Company, Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd, and BP, have redirected vessels away from the Red Sea in response to the increased threats and attacks.
(With Agency Inputs)
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