Exclusive: US Shoots Down Houthi Anti-Ship Missile In Gulf of Aden
The US has intercepted a Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile and Iranian UAVs in the Gulf of Aden. This comes on the heels of Houthi rebels claiming to have attacked a US merchant ship in the Red Sea, raising concerns about the possibility of an open war between the US and the Middle East.
Iranian Threat in the Gulf of Aden
US Central Command confirmed that on January 31, Iranian-backed Houthi militants launched an anti-ship ballistic missile from Yemen, aimed at the Gulf of Aden. The USS Carney successfully shot down the missile, and also engaged and destroyed three Iranian UAVs in the vicinity.
Houthi Threats and Provocations
The Houthi group retaliated by claiming to have targeted a US-operated container ship in the Red Sea with naval missiles, in response to Israel’s ongoing attacks on Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea vowed to retaliate against any American and British ships, calling them legitimate targets, citing an “American-British escalation, and rebutting any attempts at destabilizing Yemen.
US Response and Potential Escalation
After consultation with top advisers, President Biden hinted at possible retaliation against Iran following the deaths of three American servicemen in Jordan, condoning a wider war in the Middle East. In light of Iran’s denial of direct involvement but unflinching warnings of retaliatory action if hit on its soil, America has remained cautious, expressing a preference for avoiding an open war.
The Escalating Crisis
The deaths of the three US soldiers have exacerbated tension between Iran and America, intensifying the crisis. Political strategist and Pentagon officials contemplate a strategy to defend American facilities and enforce national security interests, considering potential multi-faceted actions against Iran.
Need for Caution amid Threats
Both parties are clear that they aim to avoid an open war, but remain ready to defend their interests. Iran condemns any attempts at creating unrest within its borders, while the US is poised to protect its national security, sparking concerns over the looming prospect of direct conflict.
Undisclosed American Response
While no specific response has been issued, the White House mulls over potential courses of action to safeguard American military and diplomatic interests, a resolve born out of the recent deadly attack in Jordan. John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, hinted at the likelihood of a tiered approach as deemed necessary to ensure the safety of American personnel and facilities.