Hours after US' 'final warning', Houthis launch drone to attack ships in Red Sea

In the Red Sea, a Houthi-controlled armed unmanned surface vessel (USV) approached U.S. Navy and commercial ships, detonating just hours after a final warning from the White House and partner nations to cease attacks or face potential military action. Vice Admiral Brad Cooper noted the Houthis' first use of a USV in this context, previously deploying them during the Israel-Hamas war. These USVs often act as suicide drone boats, manufactured in Yemen with components from Iran.

At the UN, U.S. Deputy Ambassador Christopher Lu accused Iran of supplying the Houthis with money and advanced weapons, urging Iran to withdraw support. A joint statement from multiple nations, including the U.S., issued a final warning to the Houthis, demanding an end to illegal attacks that threaten global commerce and lives in critical waterways.

Related video: Houthis utilize new weapon, sea drone, day after U.S. warning (NBC News)

Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder emphasized potential consequences for continued strikes, without specifying military action. Since October, the Houthis launched numerous one-way attack drones and missiles, intercepted by U.S. warships. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin initiated Operation Prosperity Guardian in December, deploying additional ships to safeguard vessels passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Operation Prosperity Guardian, labelled defensive, involves contributions from the U.S., the UK, France, Greece, and Denmark. Despite the operation, Houthi attacks persist, prompting the recent warning. While Cooper asserted the defensive nature of Operation Prosperity Guardian, he indicated it is distinct from any potential military response to ongoing Houthi attacks. The situation raises concerns about addressing the broader conflict, possibly involving Iran and risking escalation. The international community underscores the severity of consequences if Houthi attacks persist, emphasizing the urgency for a resolution.

Please note that the evolving situation may lead to further developments or responses.

अमेरिका की 'अंतिम चेतावनी' के कुछ घंटों बाद, हौथिस ने लाल सागर में जहाजों पर हमला करने के लिए ड्रोन लॉन्च किया