On September 8, 2024, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the destruction of three drones and two missile systems belonging to the Houthi group, which is internationally classified as a terrorist organization, within the past 24 hours.

In a statement reviewed by Barran Press, CENTCOM reported, “During the last 24 hours, US Central Command forces successfully destroyed three unmanned aerial vehicles and two missile systems in an area controlled by Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen.”

The statement further noted that these systems posed an imminent threat to US forces, coalition troops, and commercial vessels in the region, asserting that the actions were taken “to protect maritime freedom and make international waters safer and more secure.”

Since October 2023, the Houthi group has continued its attacks with missiles and drones against commercial shipping in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Gulf of Aden.

These attacks have led to increased marine insurance costs and prompted many international shipping companies to opt for the significantly longer route around the southern tip of Africa.

In response to the Houthi threat and to safeguard maritime navigation, the United States formed a multinational coalition in December 2023. US forces have been conducting sporadic strikes against Houthi military targets since then.