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Houthis Launch Armed Unmanned Surface Vessel in Red Sea, Ignoring Final Warning from US and Allies

Despite the launch of Operation Prosperity Guardian and international warnings, the Iran-backed militia continues its attacks on commercial vessels.

  • Houthi rebels launched an armed unmanned surface vessel (USV) from Yemen that detonated within a couple of miles of U.S. Navy and commercial vessels in the Red Sea, marking the first use of a USV since their harassment of commercial ships began after the Israel-Hamas war.
  • The USV is a key part of the Houthi maritime arsenal and is often fitted with components made in Iran, such as computerized guidance systems.
  • The United States and a host of partner nations issued a final warning to the Iran-backed militia group to cease the attacks or face potential military action.
  • Since late October, the Houthis have launched scores of one-way attack drones and missiles at commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea.
  • Despite the warnings and the launch of Operation Prosperity Guardian, the Houthis have continued to launch missiles and attack drones.
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