US destroys Houthi targets in Red Sea in 'self-defense'

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US destroyed Houthi targets in Yemen, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said Monday.

"On March 18, between 1:00 p.m. and 7:40 p.m. (Sanaa time), United States Central Command (CENTCOM) forces successfully engaged and destroyed seven anti-ship missiles, three unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and three weapons storage containers in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen in self-defense," CENTCOM said on X.

CENTCOM said it determined that the weapons presented 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 creation of a multinational mission, Operation Prosperity Guardian, to counter the Houthi attacks.