US Navy Thwarts Missile and Drone Attack
The United States Navy, operating in the Red Sea, has thwarted an attempted missile and drone attack, reportedly targeting Israel. The attack, originating from Yemen, was attributed to Iran-backed Huthi rebels. Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Pat Ryder confirmed that three “land-attack cruise missiles and several drones” were successfully intercepted by a US Navy destroyer.
A Potential Threat to Israel
The intercepted attack, launched by Huthi forces in Yemen, raised concerns that the intended targets may have included locations within Israel. However, no specific targets were confirmed. The USS Carney, the US Navy ship involved in the operation, was patrolling the Red Sea as part of a reinforced US military presence directed by President Joe Biden. This move aimed to maintain stability in the region, especially in the aftermath of the conflict between Israel and the Hamas militant group in the Gaza Strip.
US Response and Regional Stability
According to General Ryder, there were no reported US casualties, and the intercepted missiles were likely to have fallen into open water, rather than over land. While the exact targets remain unclear, the defensive response by the US Navy reflects their commitment to regional stability and security. General Ryder emphasized that the defensive response was in line with the US’s approach to any similar threat in the region.
“The United States has the capability to defend our broader interests in the region and to deter regional escalation and broader expansion of the conflict that began with Hamas’ attack on Israeli civilians,” he stated.
US Military Deployment and Biden’s Support
In light of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, President Biden has ordered an increase in air and naval assets to the Middle East, including the dispatch of two aircraft carriers. Additionally, the Pentagon has put 2,000 personnel on standby for potential deployment. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin noted that this deployment enhances the United States’ ability to respond swiftly to the crisis.
It’s important to note that the White House clarified that these measures do not involve the deployment of US combat forces on the ground. The troops being readied for deployment are expected to cover support roles, including medical assistance and handling explosives.
US-Israel Relations and Regional Security
President Biden’s recent visit to Israel underscored the strong US support for the nation. During his visit, he emphasized the need for Congress to fund military backing for Israel and another embattled US ally, Ukraine.
Regarding reports of US forces potentially joining Israeli troops in response to an attack by the Lebanese movement Hezbollah against Israel, President Biden clarified that such reports were not accurate. However, he acknowledged that discussions between the US military and its Israeli counterparts were ongoing to explore potential alternatives in the event of a Hezbollah attack.
As this situation continues to develop, the world remains attentive to the evolving dynamics in the region and their impact on international relations and security.
Sources By Agencies
