The United States military has reported the first instance of a Houthi unmanned underwater vehicle in the Red Sea.
On Saturday, the United States military carried out five attacks in Yemen’s Houthi-controlled regions for the purpose of self-defense. One of these strikes targeted an unmanned underwater vehicle, as announced by U.S. Central Command on Sunday.
According to CENTCOM, the incident on Saturday was the first time that the Houthi group has been seen using an unmanned underwater vehicle since attacks began in the Red Sea region in October.
On Saturday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. local time, the military launched defense attacks against three moving anti-ship cruise missiles and an unmanned surface vessel. According to a news release from CENTCOM, these targets were considered to be an immediate danger to U.S. Navy and merchant ships in the area. The military stated that these actions were taken to safeguard the freedom of navigation and improve the safety and security of international waters for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels.
COMBAT
The initial attacks were carried out as a response to Houthi assaults. A few days later, the U.S. administration reclassified the military action.Houthi movement as a terrorist organization
The group increased their assaults in the Red Sea.
The Red Sea is a commonly used waterway for commercial ships and serves as the main sea route connecting Europe and Asia. However, due to safety concerns, numerous companies are now avoiding this area.
Major shipping companies such as CMA CGA, Equinor, Evergreen, Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk, Orient Overseas, and ZIM have stated their intention to steer clear of the Red Sea as long as the conflict continues.MoneyWatch
In December, BP announced that it had halted the transportation of gas and oil in the region.Ikea
Earlier, there were warnings about potential shortages due to shipping companies avoiding the Red Sea.
During a UN Security Council meeting on Yemen last week, U.S. Ambassador Robert Wood discussed the matter, highlighting that redirecting a vessel around Africa results in approximately 10 extra days and an additional $1 million in fuel expenses for each trip between Asia and Europe.
Wood stated that the Houthis are attempting to establish control over international shipping in the Red Sea, which has led to higher expenses for individuals across the globe who rely on goods and supplies.
Aliza Chasan
Thank you for checking out CBS NEWS.
Create your free account or log in
for more features.
Source: cbsnews.com