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US Navy Destroyer USS Carney Intercepts Houthi Missiles Potentially Aimed at Israel

Published October 21, 2023
1 years ago

In an unprecedented move, the US Navy destroyer, USS Carney intercepted multiple missiles and drones launched by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, that were potentially aimed at Israel, marking the first U.S. military action taken to defend Israel in the prevailing crisis.



The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer intercepted these missiles while stationed in the northern Red Sea on Thursday evening. It was reported that the USS Carney had successfully downed three land attack cruise missiles and numerous drones, according to Pentagon spokesperson Brig. General Pat Ryder, with multiple US officials confirming this number to be as high as eight.


"The engagements were directed towards missiles and drones launched from Yemen, heading north along the Red Sea potentially targeting Israel" General Ryder revealed an ongoing process to assimilate information about the engagement. Even though it is currently unclear from where the Houthi militia's weapons were fired, their northerly direction raises suspicions.



This confrontational action comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, with an escalated conflict between Israel and Hamas. The Houthi rebels, an Iranian-backed Shiite movement that has seized control over much of northern Yemen, has been waging war against a Saudi-led coalition since 2015, often employing missiles and drones.


Recent comments by Houthi leader Abdel-Malek al-Houthi suggested potential repurcussions if the U.S. directly intervenes in the Gaza conflict, stating on record that his militia could respond by firing drones, missiles, and taking other military options, should "the red lines when it comes to Gaza" be crossed.


In response to these escalating tensions, the U.S. has reinforced its military presence in the region, including the USS Carney as part of the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group, which will be joined by the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower carrier strike group over the next 7-10 days.


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