In a recent development marking escalating tensions in the region, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported the destruction of two drones, one over the Red Sea and the other on the ground in Yemen. These drones, according to military officials, were being deployed by Houthi forces to target coalition naval ships and international commercial vessels.
The incident underscores the ongoing conflict between US-led maritime forces and the Houthi rebels, with each side engaging in aggressive maneuvers. The destruction of these drones was hailed by CENTCOM as necessary measures to protect their forces and ensure the safety of navigation in international waters.
While the Houthis have not officially claimed responsibility for additional attacks in the Red Sea recently, the US military has reported intercepting ballistic missiles and drones launched by the group in recent days.
Since November, the Houthis have intensified their attacks, seizing a commercial ship and launching numerous drones and ballistic missiles targeting naval and commercial vessels in strategic waterways. They claim these actions are aimed at pressuring authorities to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.
In response to the Houthi attacks, the US and UK have carried out multiple strikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, targeting military installations and weapons facilities. CENTCOM has also reported regular interceptions of Houthi drones and missiles.
Meanwhile, a human rights organization, the Yemeni Network for Rights and Freedoms, highlighted the grim toll of landmines and explosive devices planted by the Houthis across Yemen. The organization reported that over the past six years, these devices have killed or injured thousands of civilians, including women and children. The southern province of Taiz recorded the highest number of casualties, followed by other provinces across the country.
Ousama Al-Gosaibi, managing director of the Masam demining project in Yemen, criticized the international community for its inaction in addressing the proliferation of Houthi landmines. The project, funded by Saudi Arabia, has been actively involved in mine-clearing efforts in Yemen since mid-2018, clearing hundreds of thousands of mines and explosive devices from Yemeni soil.
The situation underscores the multifaceted challenges facing Yemen, from armed conflicts to humanitarian crises, highlighting the urgent need for international cooperation and intervention to alleviate the suffering of Yemeni civilians and stabilize the region.