Houthi Movement Claims Targeting U.S. Destroyers and Cargo Ships

The Iran-aligned Houthi movement claimed to have targeted the Contship Ono in the Red Sea and two U.S destroyers in the Gulf of Aden, but Contships Management confirmed the vessel was unharmed. The attacks, aimed to support Palestinians in Gaza, have led to shipping route disruptions and heightened regional tensions.

The Iran-aligned Houthi movement announced on Wednesday that it had targeted the Contship Ono in the Red Sea and two U.S. destroyers in the Gulf of Aden. However, Contships Management confirmed the vessel was not hit and its crew remained safe.

Earlier, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed their air force targeted U.S. destroyer Cole with drones and U.S. destroyer Laboon with ballistic missiles.

A U.S. official stated there is no evidence to support the Houthis' claims. The group has frequently targeted ships in critical Red Sea and Gulf of Aden shipping lanes to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. This has forced shippers to take longer, costlier routes and stirred fears of further Middle East instability.

(With inputs from agencies.)