January 1, US Attacked in International Waters, CENTCOM Confirms

United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed four attacks on three commercial vessels in international waters in the Southern Red Sea on Sunday, allegedly supported by Iran. The three vessels were connected to 14 nations, and the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Carney responded and provided assistance after distress calls from the ships, according to a CENTCOM press release.

At around 9:15 a.m. Sanaa time, the Carney detected an anti-ship ballistic missile fired toward the Bahamas-flagged and United Kingdom-owned bulk cargo ship Unity Explorer, which is crewed by sailors from two nations. The missile originated in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. The Carney was patrolling the area when it detected the attack.

The Carney later shot down an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in international waters that was heading for the U.S. warship around noon. The UAV was also from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, according to the release, and its specific target was unknown. There was no reported damage from the noon incident to the U.S. ship or personnel.

Just after 12:30 p.m., the Unity Explorer reported it had been hit by a missile fired from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. The Carney responded, and while assessing the damage, the U.S. warship detected and shot down another inbound UAV. There was no additional damage reported to either ship. There was minor damage reported to the Unity Explorer from the initial missile hit.

Later, at around 3:30 p.m., the Panamanian-flagged, Bermuda-and-U.K.-owned Number 9 cargo ship was struck by a missile fired from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. The ship was in international waters in the Red Sea, according to the release. The ship reported damage but no casualties.

Around 4:30 p.m., the ship Sophie II, a Panamanian-flagged bulk carrier, sent a distress call saying it had been hit by a missile. The Carney responded, and there was no significant damage, according to the release. The Carney shot down another UAV while en route to assist the Sophie II, which is crewed by sailors from eight nations.

“These attacks represent a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security. They have jeopardized the lives of international crews representing multiple countries around the world,” CENTCOM said.

“We also have every reason to believe that these attacks, while launched by the Houthis in Yemen, are fully enabled by Iran. The United States will consider all appropriate responses in full coordination with its international allies and partners.”

Why It Matters (op-ed)

The recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Southern Red Sea, allegedly supported by Iran, should be a wake-up call for the international community. These acts of aggression not only threaten global commerce but also maritime security.

Iran’s continued support for the Houthi rebels in Yemen enables such attacks, putting innocent lives at risk. The United States and its allies must take decisive action to counter this growing threat.

The USS Carney’s swift response to these incidents demonstrates American commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. However, a stronger international response is needed to deter further aggression and hold Iran accountable for its actions.

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