The U.S. Navy intercepted multiple missiles and drones launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels at two American warships and three merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden on Sunday, Dec. 1. Navy officials reported that the destroyers USS Stockdale and USS O’Kane successfully destroyed three anti-ship ballistic missiles, three drones and one cruise missile.
No injuries or damage were reported, U.S. officials did not identify the merchant vessels involved.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed responsibility, stating the attack included 16 ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as a drone. Saree identified the merchant vessels targeted as the Stena Impeccable, Maersk Saratoga and Liberty Grace, and claimed “precise and direct hits” were achieved.
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The Houthis described the operation as part of a campaign against U.S. and Israeli interests, demanding the lifting of the Gaza blockade. Washington has not commented on the incident.
The Gulf of Aden, a key maritime route handling nearly $1 trillion in global trade annually, has seen increased Houthi activity in recent months. Houthi forces have escalated attacks on vessels in the region amid broader tensions in the Middle East. The USS Stockdale faced a similar attack earlier in November 2024.
The U.S. Navy stated that both destroyers remain on high alert, actively securing trade routes and protecting vessels in the area.
