The United States conducted airstrikes on Houthi anti-ship cruise missiles and ships on Saturday, including the first unmanned underwater vessel used by the Iran-backed rebel group in the Red Sea. This was confirmed by the US Central Command (CENTCOM).
CENTCOM reported that five strikes were carried out against three anti-ship cruise missiles, an unmanned underwater vessel, and an unmanned surface vessel between 3 and 8 pm local time on Saturday. According to CENTCOM, these targets were located in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and were deemed to pose an imminent threat to US Navy ships and naval vessels in the region.
The attack on the unmanned submarine vessel reflects a new strategy against the Houthis, despite continued US airstrikes against the rebel group. Earlier this month, the US and UK targeted at least 30 Houthi sites across 10 locations in Yemen with the goal of de-escalating tensions and restoring stability in the Red Sea.
The Houthis have been targeting US and commercial ships in the Red Sea since Israel’s invasion of Gaza following Hamas attacks on October 7. This has raised concerns that the situation may escalate into a broader regional conflict. The attacks have also led to the suspension of transit through one of the world‘s most crucial maritime trade routes, potentially impacting the global economy.
Last week, CNN was onboard two ships at the forefront of the US response to Houthi attacks in the southern Red Sea. The Navy has been working diligently, deploying jets and firing missiles to target Houthi weapons and infrastructure.
Contributors to this report include CNN’s Jack Forrest, Natasha Bertrand, Oren Liebermann, Haley Britzky, and Christian Edwards.