The White House has stated that it does not intend to escalate tensions in the Middle East following the incident where US helicopters destroyed Houthi vessels

The White House announced on Sunday that it does not intend to expand the conflict in the Middle East following an incident where US helicopters sank three Houthi boats in the Red Sea. The US helicopters were responding to an attack when they engaged and sank the Houthi boats, resulting in the first direct US action against members of the Iranian-backed Houthi rebel group this year. The Houthis have been known for targeting commercial and merchant vessels in the Red Sea.

Despite this incident, the United States has generally refrained from direct strikes against the Houthis in Yemen, aiming to prevent further escalation of the crisis. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby emphasized the US’s stance on ABC News, stating that the US is not seeking a broader conflict in the region or with the Houthis. He urged the Houthis to cease their attacks.

The incident in question involved four boats from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen attacking the Maersk Hangzhou with small arms and attempting to board it. US Central Command reported that helicopters from the USS Eisenhower and USS Gravely responded to a distress call from the Maersk Hangzhou, which was the second call in less than 24 hours. The Houthi boats opened fire on the helicopters, which then returned fire in self-defense, sinking three boats and forcing the fourth to flee.

This action comes amidst numerous attacks by the Houthis on commercial vessels since October 7, in solidarity with Hamas. The US has increased its naval presence in the Red Sea to enhance security in this vital global shipping lane.

While President Joe Biden has authorized strikes on other Iranian proxy groups in Iraq and Syria, he has been more cautious regarding direct action against the Houthis in Yemen. Kirby reiterated the US’s commitment to protecting its national security interests in the region and its readiness to act in self-defense. He also stated that all options are on the table, but the US is taking these threats seriously and will make appropriate decisions moving forward.