CENTCOM Strikes 15 Houthi Military Sites to Protect Maritime Security in Yemen

US Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted targeted strikes on 15 Houthi military sites in Yemen, specifically aimed at disrupting their offensive capabilities in order to safeguard maritime security. The operation occurred at around 5:00 p.m. Sanaa time and was necessary to protect the freedom of navigation and ensure the safety of US, coalition, and commercial vessels in international waters.

The strikes were a direct response to repeated Houthi attacks on commercial shipping vessels, with over 100 incidents reported since November 2023. These attacks have resulted in the sinking of two ships and the loss of four civilian lives. The Houthi group justifies its actions as a show of solidarity with Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, further escalating tensions in the region.

Recent events have underscored the ongoing threat posed to maritime activities in the area, with two separate attacks reported in the southern Red Sea this week. The attacks targeted the Panama-flagged oil tanker Cordelia Moon and the bulk carrier Minoan Courage, causing damage to the vessels but thankfully no injuries to crew members. Authorities now caution about the Houthi’s intent and capability to target ships linked to the US, UK, or Israel, extending the threat to vessels from companies with past ties to Israel.

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