US Navy takes defensive action, sinks 3 Houthi Boats in Red Sea
US Navy Helicopters engage and disable 3 Houthi Boats in Red Sea amidst self-defense operation
- By Gurmehar --
- Sunday, 31 Dec, 2023
In a recent incident, US Navy helicopters swiftly reacted to a distress call from the Singapore-flagged Maersk Hangzhou, reporting an attack by four Houthi small boats in the Red Sea. The USS Eisenhower and USS Gravely deployed helicopters, issuing verbal warnings to the attackers. However, the Houthi boats, armed with crew-served weapons, opened fire on the Maersk Hangzhou, approaching within 20 meters and attempting to board the vessel.
Fierce exchange and counteraction
Despite verbal warnings, the Houthi boats fired upon the US helicopters, leading to a fierce exchange. In self-defense, service members aboard the Navy helicopters returned fire, successfully sinking three of the Houthi small boats and eliminating their crews. The fourth boat fled the scene. The clash marked the 23rd Houthi attack in six weeks, prompting concerns for companies navigating the Red Sea.
The heightened tensions have led to a temporary pause in transits by Maersk for security assessments, impacting global shipping routes. In response to escalating Houthi attacks, the US establishes Operation Prosperity Guardian, a naval task force dedicated to ensuring the safe passage of commercial ships through the region.
Broader implications of Houthi attacks
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the increased frequency of Houthi attacks underscore the broader implications for global shipping routes. This incident highlights the complex interplay between personal beliefs, industry repercussions, and the influential role of social media in today's interconnected world. Despite the provocation, the US military has refrained from direct strikes against the Houthis in Yemen, aiming to prevent further escalation in the already volatile Middle East.
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