CENTKOM attacks Huti targets in Yemen in response to shipping threats

The U.S. Central Command Force (CENTCOM) carried out massive strikes on Friday at Huti's 15th targets in Yemen. The attack, aimed at weakening the offensive military capabilities of this Iran-supported group, is a reaction to the increasing threat to maritime security in the region.

The operation began on Friday at 17:00 local time and was one of the biggest attacks on Huti since the beginning of the conflict, which has already lasted almost a year. The strikes were directed at the key elements of Huti's military infrastructure. As highlighted in the CENTCOM Communication, attacks are aimed at ensuring "freedom of navigation" and increasing security in international waters which are crucial to the United States, their allies and global trade operations.

Few details were revealed about the scope of the attacks, but it is believed that they concerned five locations in Yemen. The Associated Press reports that the attacks focused on the port town of Hodeida and its airport, as well as near Sana's capital and other parts of the country.

The attacks are believed to have been carried out using Tomahawk maneuvering missiles fired from US Navy missile destroyers patrolling the Red Sea, as well as using fighters. Huti saythat the British forces were also involved in these raids, but the British Ministry of Defence denies that they participated in these activities.

Escalating threats to shipping in the region

As of November 2023, Huti, supported by Iran, carried out more than 100 attacks on merchant ships, resulting in the sinking of two units and the deaths of four civilians. The group, citing solidarity with the Palestinians in the Israeli-Palestine conflict, intensifys its efforts in the Red Sea and Gulf region, which are one of the key hubs for global shipping.

Recent sea incidents

Over the past week, there have been two major attacks that have shaken the international maritime community. Tanker Cordelia Moon floating flying the flag of Panama was attacked with missiles and an unmanned drone (USV), which caused serious damage to the left side of the unit. In a separate incident, a mass ship Minoan Courage was hit by a missile, but in both cases the crew did not suffer any injuries.

The authorities warn that Huti has both technical capabilities and determination to further attack ships associated with the US, the United Kingdom, Israel and the naval resources of American and coalition military forces. Additionally, there is an increasing risk of attacks on individuals belonging to companies that have a history of calling to ports in Israel.

Increase of tension in the region

Huti's increasing attacks on merchant ships and maritime infrastructure in the region are a major challenge for global supply chains. United States reaction is not only a response to current threats, but also a signal to other regional actors that shipping safety remains a priority for the international community.

Source: CENTCOM/Associated Press

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