Former Israel counter-terrorism veteran Aaron Cohen tells ‘America Reports’ about how Israel’s special operations units are reacting to growing fears over Hezbollah’s threat against Israel. A U.S. Navy destroyer intercepted several missiles fired near the coast of Yemen on Thursday, though it is unclear what the missiles were targeting, Pentagon officials said.
The USS Carney, a guided missile destroyer operating in the Northern Red Sea, successfully shot down three land attack cruise missiles and several drones that were launched by Iranian-backed Houthi militants in Yemen, according to U.S. Department of Defense spokesperson Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder. This action showcased the integrated air and missile defense architecture that the United States has built in the Middle East, demonstrating preparedness to protect partners and interests in the region. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported among U.S. forces or on the ground.
While the specific targets of the missiles and drones remain unknown, Ryder stated that they were potentially heading towards Israel. The response from the U.S. military was in line with their commitment to counter any threats in the region. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has emphasized the capability to defend broader interests in the area. Ryder warned that the attack may still be ongoing, and the U.S. military will remain vigilant against any potential threat.
In light of escalating tensions in the Middle East, the Department of Defense has been reinforcing forces to deter a wider conflict, maintain stability, and safeguard national security interests. The U.S. Navy recently announced the deployment of the USS Mount Whitney, a command and control ship, to the Eastern Mediterranean. This move aims to support ongoing operations and address the heightened tensions amid the Israel-Hamas war.
The USS Mount Whitney departed Gaeta, Italy, joining the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Additionally, the Marine rapid response force known as the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, composed of nearly 2,000 Marines and sailors, is moving closer to Israel via the Red Sea. The amphibious ready groups USS Bataan and USS Carter Hall are part of this deployment.
The Department of Defense continues to assess the situation and fortify its presence in the region. The USS Mesa Verde is also positioned in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. These efforts demonstrate the United States’ commitment to regional security and stability.
In conclusion, the U.S. Navy’s successful interception of missiles and drones launched by Iranian-backed Houthi militants in Yemen highlights the importance of the integrated air and missile defense architecture in the Middle East. As tensions rise in the region, the United States is bolstering its forces to deter conflict, protect its interests, and support allies like Israel. The ongoing situation underscores the need for continued vigilance and readiness to address potential threats to regional security.
