Houthi Militants Claim 9-Hour Attack On U.S Navy Aircraft Carrier In Red Sea

Yemen’s Houthi group has claimed a nine-hour missile and drone attack on the USS Harry S. Truman and its carrier strike group in the northern Red Sea. The group says that the attack forced the carrier to move to the far north of the Red Sea.

Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree stated that the attack involved “a number of cruise missiles and drones” and was carried out in response to recent U.S., British, and Israeli airstrikes on Houthi sites in Yemen.

Saree also claimed that this was the fifth attack on the U.S. carrier since its arrival in the region. He added that the operation was conducted in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and warned of more attacks unless the conflict in Gaza ends.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has not confirmed the attack but released a photo showing the USS Harry S. Truman and its accompanying vessels, USS Jason Dunham and USS Gettysburg, sailing in the Red Sea.

CENTCOM also reported that its commander, General Michael Erik Kurilla, recently visited the carrier to oversee operations and meet with the crew.

General Kurilla highlighted the carrier’s role in maintaining regional security and deterring threats, calling the strike group a symbol of U.S. strength and commitment. CENTCOM confirmed the carrier has been operating in the region since December 14.

The alleged attack occurred shortly after Israel and its allies launched airstrikes on Houthi-held areas, including ports in Hudaydah and Ras Isa, and a power station.

These strikes disrupted key infrastructure, causing a backlog of at least 15 tankers off Yemen’s coast. Some of these tankers were carrying Russian oil.

In December, Israel reported destroying tugboats in Yemeni ports in response to Houthi attacks. The Houthis have retaliated with drone and missile strikes on Israeli-linked shipping and U.S. warships in the region.

CENTCOM acknowledged earlier this month that missiles launched from Yemen were intercepted by the carrier strike group.

The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, have vowed to continue their attacks until what they call “aggression against Gaza” ends.

Meanwhile, CENTCOM and its allies continue to conduct airstrikes and naval operations to deter the group and ensure maritime security.

Reference: CGTN

Source: Maritime Shipping News