In a significant display of military prowess, U.S. and coalition forces successfully thwarted a large-scale attack conducted by Iranian-backed Houthis in the Red Sea over the weekend. According to the Pentagon, at least 28 uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) were shot down during the operation.

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that the engagement took place between 4:00 a.m. and 8:20 a.m. (Sanaa time) on March 9, with U.S. Navy vessels and aircraft, along with multiple coalition navy ships and aircraft, participating in the defense. Remarkably, there were no reports of damage to U.S. or coalition navy vessels, nor were there any reports of damage from commercial ships in the area.

CENTCOM further stated that the UAV attack posed an imminent threat to merchant vessels, U.S. Navy, and coalition ships in the region. As a result, 15 one-way attack (OWA) UAVs were shot down, ensuring the protection of freedom of navigation and increasing the safety and security of international waters.

In parallel to this event, the U.S. Army Vessel General Frank S. Besson set sail from Virginia on Saturday, heading towards the Eastern Mediterranean. The vessel carries essential equipment required for establishing a temporary pier in Gaza. This plan was announced by President Biden during his State of the Union address on Thursday, emphasizing the absence of U.S. boots on the ground.

The U.S. has also been actively conducting humanitarian aid drops in the region, extending a helping hand to those in need. On Sunday, U.S. C-130 aircraft dropped over 27,600 U.S. meal equivalents and approximately 25,900 bottles of water into Northern Gaza, an area that has been identified as requiring urgent assistance.

President Biden has underscored the importance of facilitating increased humanitarian aid into Gaza, calling on Israel to play its part by allowing more aid into the region and ensuring the safety of humanitarian workers. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has devised a comprehensive plan to deliver aid to Gaza through the establishment of a temporary pier. This plan includes coordination with other nations to oversee the operation of the causeway and efficient distribution of aid, with U.S. military personnel operating offshore without the need for a presence on the ground.

Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder affirmed that the humanitarian aid drops will continue as part of a "full court press" strategy to address the urgent needs of the region. The DoD, in collaboration with its international partners, remains committed to navigating the complex dynamics of the situation to alleviate the suffering of those in Gaza.

By repelling the Iranian-backed Houthi attack in the Red Sea and intensifying efforts to provide humanitarian aid, the U.S. and its coalition partners are demonstrating their commitment to maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region.