The US military successfully destroyed four anti-ship missiles in Yemen as part of ongoing efforts to counter attacks by Iran-backed Huthi rebels. The missiles, described as an imminent threat to both civilian and military vessels in the region, were destroyed despite continued rebel aggression.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), this marks at least the third instance within a week where the United States has taken action against the Huthi rebels. Despite previous strikes, the rebels persist in targeting merchant vessels in the crucial Red Sea shipping lane. The Huthis claim these attacks are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, where conflict ensues between Israel and the militant group Hamas.

Last week, joint efforts by the United States and Britain targeted nearly 30 sites in Yemen, deploying over 150 munitions. Subsequent to these strikes, American forces engaged a Huthi radar site in a follow-up operation.

The rebels have openly declared US and British interests as "legitimate targets," continuing their assaults on ships in the Red Sea. CENTCOM reported that on Tuesday, the Huthis launched an anti-ship ballistic missile into international shipping lanes. A Maltese-flagged bulk carrier confirmed being hit but remained seaworthy.

In a significant development, American forces intercepted Iranian-made missile components intended for the Huthis in the Arabian Sea last week. CENTCOM described this as the first seizure of lethal, Iranian-supplied advanced conventional weapons destined for the rebels since their attacks on merchant ships began in November 2023.

To safeguard the vital Red Sea shipping route, the United States established a multinational naval task force last month. The Huthis pose a threat to this transit route, which facilitates up to 12 percent of global trade. US forces have consistently thwarted missiles and drones launched from Yemen in recent weeks.

While the Huthis claim to be targeting Israeli-linked vessels, the US asserts that numerous countries have connections to the attacked ships. The escalation in the Israel-Hamas conflict traces back to October 7, when the Palestinian militant group initiated a cross-border attack from Gaza, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,140 people, primarily civilians.

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