The Houthi forces deployed a sea drone to target ships, escalating tensions

An unmanned armed vessel, controlled by the Houthi forces from Yemen, came dangerously close to U.S. Navy and civilian ships in the Red Sea before exploding. This incident occurred shortly after the White House and several nations warned the Iran-supported group to stop such attacks or risk military action.

Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, in charge of U.S. Navy operations in the Middle East, reported that this was the first use of an unmanned surface vessel (USV) by the Houthis in their recent disruptions in the Red Sea, which started after the Israel-Hamas conflict. Previously, the Houthis have used these vessels, often as explosive-laden drones.

Fabian Hinz, a missile specialist at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, noted that these USVs are a significant part of the Houthi naval weaponry. They have been frequently employed as suicide drones in battles against Saudi coalition forces in Yemen. Hinz mentioned that while these USVs are likely assembled in Yemen, they often incorporate Iranian-made components, including computerized guidance systems.

At a United Nations Security Council meeting, U.S. deputy ambassador Christopher Lu emphasized Iran’s role in supporting the Houthis with funds and advanced weaponry, including drones and missiles. He highlighted that Iran’s involvement extends to planning attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

Lu pointed out that Iran faces a choice, implying that a shift in its support could significantly impact the Houthis’ ability to target commercial shipping.

The United States, along with other countries like Australia, Bahrain, and the United Kingdom, issued a stern warning to the Houthis, demanding an immediate halt to these illegal attacks and the release of unlawfully detained vessels and crews. The group warned of consequences if the Houthis continued to pose threats.

Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder did not specify potential military responses following the USV incident, but underscored the collective resolve expressed in the statement.

Since late October, the Houthis have launched numerous drone and missile attacks on ships in the Red Sea. The U.S. Navy has intercepted several missiles aimed at Israel. According to Cooper, U.S. warships have downed a total of 61 missiles and drones.

In response, the U.S. initiated Operation Prosperity Guardian in December, deploying additional ships to protect commercial vessels in the Red Sea, especially near the crucial Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Since the operation’s launch, about 1,500 commercial ships have passed safely.

However, the continued Houthi attacks led to the collective warning from the White House and allies, hinting at possible targeted military action if the attacks don’t stop. Cooper clarified that Operation Prosperity Guardian is defensive and separate from any potential U.S. military action against the Houthis.

The U.S., U.K., and France are currently providing most of the warships for this operation, with additional support expected from Greece and Denmark.