The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced early Wednesday, September 11, 2024, the destruction of two missile systems and five drones belonging to the Houthi group, internationally designated as a terrorist organization, within the past 24 hours.

The CENTCOM statement, published on X,reviewed by "Barran Press", stated, "Over the past 24 hours, USCENTCOM forces successfully destroyed five Iranian-backed Houthi unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and two missile systems in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen."

The statement highlighted that "these systems posed a clear and imminent threat to US forces, coalition forces, and commercial vessels in the region." It added that these actions were taken to protect freedom of navigation and ensure the safety and security of US forces, coalition forces, and commercial vessels in international waters.

Since last November, the Houthi group has been carrying out attacks using missiles and drones against commercial cargo ships in the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Aden.

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.

To deter the Houthis and protect maritime navigation, the United States established a multinational coalition in December 2023. US forces have been conducting strikes against Houthi military targets on a periodic basis.