US MILITARY SAYS DESTROYED ANTI-SHIP BALLISTIC MISSILE LAUNCHED…

On April 11, 2024, the United States Military announced that it had successfully intercepted and destroyed an anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen in the Red Sea. The interception took place in international waters, according to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

The Houthi rebels, who have been in control of Yemen's northern part since 2014, have previously claimed responsibility for launching missiles towards Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, this is the first reported instance of the Houthis launching an ASBM, which has a longer range and greater destructive capacity than their previous cruise missiles and drones.

The U.S. Navy's Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, which is deployed in Saudi Arabia, was used to intercept the missile. The THAAD system is designed to intercept and destroy short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles in their final phase of flight.

The launching of the ASBM comes amidst heightened tensions in the region, with the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States and its allies. The United States, along with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have accused Iran of providing military support to the Houthis, a charge that Iran denies.

The successful interception of the ASBM by the U.S. Military is a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the broader regional tensions. The U.S. and its allies have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the security of shipping lanes in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, which are crucial for global trade.

The U.S. Central Command is currently investigating the origin of the missile and will provide further updates as information becomes available. The Houthis have not yet commented on the incident.

In summary, on April 11, 2024, the U.S. Military intercepted and destroyed an anti-ship ballistic missile launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen in the Red Sea using the THAAD system. The launching of the ASBM comes amidst heightened tensions in the region and is the first reported instance of the Houthis launching such a missile. The U.S., along with its allies, have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the security of shipping lanes in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The U.S. Central Command is currently investigating the origin of the missile.