In a stern warning to the United States, Iranian Defense Minister Mohammad Reza Ashtiani has raised concerns over a proposed U.S.-supported initiative aimed at safeguarding ships from Red Sea attacks. Ashtiani, responding to statements by a U.S. defense official regarding the interception of a Houthi drone by the USS Mason, cautioned that such actions could lead to “extraordinary problems” in the region, asserting Iran’s dominance.
Earlier this week, Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder expressed deep concern over the escalating actions of Houthi forces, particularly in response to a missile attack on a Norwegian commercial tanker in the Red Sea. Ryder emphasized that these actions pose a direct threat and a blatant violation of international law.
During a press briefing, Ryder stressed the necessity of a global approach to address the issue, highlighting ongoing collaboration with international allies to form a maritime task force.
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On Wednesday, an incident unfolded in Yemen at approximately 8 a.m., where a drone, targeted by American forces, was intercepted as it approached the USS Mason. The interception followed information about Houthi rebels attacking the tanker Ardmore Encounter with skiffs and firing two missiles, both of which missed.
Preliminary reports indicated no injuries or damage, allowing the Ardmore Encounter to proceed on its journey unscathed. A Pentagon representative confirmed that the two ballistic missiles, designed for targeting ships, were launched from land-based positions in Yemen.
CENTCOM stated on Monday that the USS Mason had taken action following a Houthi missile striking a Norwegian-flagged tanker in the Red Sea. The Houthi movement later admitted to the attack, citing it as a response to Israel’s airstrikes on Gaza.
In the wake of CENTCOM’s announcement of four attacks on three distinct commercial vessels in the southern Red Sea on December 3, tensions have continued to escalate. The USS Carney, a U.S. Navy destroyer, reportedly downed an Iranian-produced Houthi drone on November 29, as confirmed by a military source speaking to Fox News.
As the situation unfolds, diplomatic efforts are underway to ease tensions and address the broader implications of these maritime incidents. The international community closely watches as Iran issues a strong warning, signaling the potential for further challenges in the troubled waters of the Red Sea.
