US, UK Navies down Houthi-launched drones in Red Sea attack

The US and UK navies successfully intercepted and downed over a dozen drones and missiles launched by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. 

The attack, considered one of the largest targeting international shipping lanes, involved Iranian kamikaze drones, anti-ship cruise missiles, and anti-ship ballistic missiles launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen.

The US military's Central Command described the incident as a "complex attack," revealing that F/A-18 fighter jets from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and multiple US and British Navy destroyers responded promptly. 

In total, 18 drones, two cruise missiles, and one ballistic missile were successfully neutralized during the operation, which occurred at approximately 9:15 pm local time on Tuesday.

The Royal Navy-operated United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKTMO) reported the attack's location as 50 nautical miles west of the Yemeni port city of Al-Hudaydah, urging vessels in the region to exercise caution. Despite the intensity of the assault, no injuries or damages were reported.

This incident marks the 26th attack by Iran-backed rebels on both military and commercial shipping in the Red Sea since November 19, as disclosed by CENTCOM. 

Following a stern warning from the US and its allies to cease attacks, the Houthi rebels continued their provocations, prompting a UN Security Council vote on a resolution condemning the attacks and demanding an immediate halt. The resolution's passage is anticipated to hinge on Russia's stance and potential use of its veto.