Barran Press
US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Saturday, August 10, 2024, that its forces destroyed a missile launch platform, a drone boat, and two drones belonging to the Houthi group in areas under their control.
CENTCOM stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter), seen by "Barran Press" that the weapons posed an "imminent threat" to US forces, coalition forces, and commercial vessels in the region.
The Houthis, designated as a terrorist group by several countries, have been launching missile and drone attacks against commercial ships in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Gulf of Aden since November 2023. These attacks have led to increased maritime insurance costs and prompted many international shipping companies to opt for the much longer route around the southern tip of Africa.
In response to the Houthi attacks, the US-led "Operation Sentinel" coalition, which includes Britain as a major participant, began airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen in January 2024. The Houthis have expanded their operations to target vessels linked to Washington and London.