US assets in the Middle East have faced an increasing threat since the war in Gaza broke out. In a recent incident, a US warship patrolling the Red Sea successfully shot down multiple one-way attack drones fired from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. The USS Thomas Hudner, a guided-missile destroyer, intercepted the drones without sustaining any damage or injuries to its crew, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM).
The Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have aligned themselves with Iran’s allies, have been actively launching drones and missiles towards Israel since the start of the conflict in Gaza. The Houthis have declared themselves part of the “axis of resistance” and have vowed to continue their operations until the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank ceases. They have also threatened to target Israeli shipping over the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
This recent incident follows Israel’s interception of a “cruise missile” heading towards the southern part of the country, which was claimed by the Houthi rebels. The seizure of an Israel-linked cargo vessel by the Houthis at the entrance to the Red Sea has further escalated tensions. Israel’s military has labeled it a “very grave incident of global consequence,” while a US military official called it “a flagrant violation of international law.”
US assets in the Middle East, including forces deployed in Iraq and Syria, have also faced numerous attacks since the beginning of the Gaza war on October 7. The Pentagon has reported at least 66 attacks targeting US personnel, resulting in over 60 injuries. In response, the US recently carried out retaliatory strikes on Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq, specifically targeting positions of the Kataib Hezbollah militia. These strikes resulted in the deaths of at least eight fighters.
However, Iraq’s government condemned the US assault, labeling it as an “unacceptable violation of Iraqi sovereignty.” They criticized the lack of coordination between the US and Iraq prior to the strikes.
The situation in the Middle East remains tense, with US assets facing continued threats and retaliatory actions being taken against Iran-backed militias. The war in Gaza has not only intensified the conflict between Israel and Hamas but has also created a volatile environment that poses risks to regional stability. The US and its allies are closely monitoring the situation as they navigate the complex dynamics of the region.
