Houthi Rebels Intensify Attacks on Shipping, Down U.S. Drone Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions

The Iran-aligned Houthi rebels have escalated their maritime and aerial assaults, targeting commercial vessels and military drones in strategic waters.

Houthi rebels claim responsibility for attacking the British oil tanker Andromeda Star and downing a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone.
The attacks are part of a broader campaign to disrupt shipping routes and express solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza conflict.
U.S. and British naval forces have responded with airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen to protect commercial shipping.
The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about regional stability and the safety of one of the world's busiest maritime routes.
The Houthi's actions are seen as part of Iran's strategy to exert influence and pressure amid the Gaza conflict.