Iran-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen have launched another attack on a U.S. ship. The attack took place on Monday (March 17) local time. This marks the second attack on a U.S. vessel within 24 hours, according to AFP.
A spokesperson for the Houthis stated that, within 24 hours, Houthi fighters targeted the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman and its warships in the Red Sea using missiles and drones.
U.S. Strikes in Yemen Kill 53 People
Earlier, U.S. airstrikes in Yemen killed at least 53 people. Following these attacks, the Houthis declared they would take “major retaliation” against the U.S.
Houthi-controlled Yemen’s Health Ministry spokesperson, Anis Asbahi, confirmed on Sunday (March 16) that the death toll from Saturday’s attack had risen to 53, including five children and two women. Another 98 people were injured.
Houthis Fire Missiles at U.S. Warships
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sari stated that they launched 18 ballistic and cruise missiles and a drone at the USS Harry S. Truman and its warships. However, the U.S. has not yet commented on these claims. Sari added that the U.S. had conducted more than 47 airstrikes on various locations in Yemen.
Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi, in a televised speech, accused the U.S. and Israel of trying to dominate the region. He warned that the Houthis would continue targeting U.S. warships in retaliation.
“If Israel does not allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, we will also target Israeli ships,” he added.
Houthis’ Attacks on Commercial Ships
Since 2023, the Houthis have been attacking commercial ships as a response to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. They stated on Sunday that their naval operations would continue until the blockade on Gaza is lifted and humanitarian aid is allowed in.
U.S. Vows to Continue Strikes
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said that the U.S. would carry out “relentless attacks” against the Houthis until their assaults stop.
In an interview with Fox News, he emphasized that these operations are a clear message to Iran to cease its support for the Houthis.