US Thwarts Houthi Attacks in Southern Red Sea, Imposes Sanctions

In the latest development, the United States successfully intercepted a drone and an anti-ship ballistic missile in the Southern Red Sea on Thursday. These were part of the 22nd attempted attack by the Houthi rebels on international shipping since October 19. Fortunately, no damage or injuries were reported, as confirmed by the U.S. Central Command in a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

This defensive action comes as a response to the Yemen-based militant group's persistent attacks on ships transiting the Red Sea, causing disruptions in regional trade. The heightened threats have compelled approximately half of the container ship fleet, which regularly traverses the sea and the Suez Canal, to opt for longer routes.

Simultaneously, the United States has taken a significant diplomatic step by imposing sanctions on the Houthis. The move involves cutting funding channels for the group amid the escalating tensions in the Red Sea. The U.S. has sanctioned one individual and three money exchanges, accusing them of facilitating the transfer of millions of dollars to the Houthis on behalf of Iran.

These strategic measures underline the international efforts to maintain maritime security and curb the destabilizing activities of the Houthi rebels in the Red Sea region.