USS Eisenhower Defends Red Sea from Houthi Attacks Alongside International Allies

The United States and the United Kingdom, with support from several allied countries, conducted a series of strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The operation aimed to defend commercial and naval vessels transiting the Red Sea and surrounding waterways from Houthi attacks involving Iranian drones and anti-ship ballistic missiles.

International Coalition's Response to Houthi Attacks

The international coalition, which includes Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand, carried out more than a dozen strikes, successfully hitting weapons storage facilities, drone and missile launchers, and other Houthi-controlled locations in Yemen. The airstrikes were in response to the near-daily Houthi attacks against commercial and naval vessels. The UK-flagged cargo ship was among the vessels hit by a Houthi missile, prompting the coalition's decisive response.

The coalition's statement highlighted the proportionate nature of the strikes, specifically targeting 18 Houthi targets across 8 locations in Yemen. The precision strikes aimed to disrupt and degrade the capabilities used by the Houthis to threaten global trade, naval vessels, and the lives of innocent mariners in critical waterways.

Stated Motive and Warning to Houthi Leadership

The coalition reiterated its commitment to protecting the freedom of navigation and international commerce, holding the Houthis accountable for their illegal attacks on commercial shipping and naval vessels. The motive behind the strikes was to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea while warning the Houthi leadership of continued defense against threats to lives and the free flow of commerce.

Participating Military Operations

The airstrikes were carried out with F-18's from the USS Eisenhower, and an assessment of any casualties is ongoing, with an expected low number, if any. The participating countries emphasized their intent to continue defending lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world's most critical waterways.

Coalition's Efforts to Counter Houthi Threats

The coalition's efforts against Houthi threats have been ongoing, with the USS Mason shooting down an anti-ship ballistic missile launched into the Gulf of Aden. Additionally, the UK Ministry of Defence's Royal Air Force participated in deliberate strikes against Houthi targets, successfully identifying and destroying long-range drones and missile operations.

Environmental and Humanitarian Concerns

The coalition addressed the environmental and humanitarian impact of Houthi attacks, citing examples such as the February 22 missile attack on a UK-owned ship and the February 19 attacks on US-owned vessels delivering humanitarian aid to Yemen. The statement emphasized the disruption caused to the delivery of humanitarian aid to Yemen and other countries due to Houthi attacks.

Ongoing Response and Commitment to Defending Commerce

The strikes and ongoing efforts by the coalition underscore the commitment to protecting freedom of navigation and international commerce. The international response is a direct response to over 45 Houthi attacks on commercial and naval vessels since mid-November, posing a threat to the global economy, regional security, and stability.

Continued Coalition Actions and Message to Houthi Leadership

The coalition's actions reflect a clear message to the Houthi leadership that consequences will be borne if illegal attacks persist, leading to harm to Middle Eastern economies, environmental damage, and disruption of humanitarian aid deliveries.

The international coalition's coordinated efforts demonstrate a unified response to safeguard maritime security and protect vessels navigating through critical waterways. The ongoing commitment to countering Houthi threats and ensuring the free flow of commerce reflects the coalition's resolve in defending international interests.

In summary, the international coalition's strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen serve as a significant development in the ongoing efforts to secure maritime routes and deter illegal attacks on commercial and naval vessels.