The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) recently carried out five strikes on Saturday, targeting three anti-ship cruise missiles, one unmanned underwater vessel, and one unmanned surface vessel in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. This action was taken between 3 and 8 p.m. local time as a response to the imminent threat these entities posed to US Navy ships and merchant vessels in the Red Sea region.

The strike marks a significant development as it is the first time the Iranian-backed Houthi rebel group has used an unmanned underwater vessel in the attacks in the Red Sea. This new strategy comes despite ongoing US airstrikes against the rebel group. Earlier this month, the US and UK jointly targeted at least 30 Houthi locations in Yemen to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the region.

The Houthi attacks have been ongoing since Israel's invasion of Gaza in response to Hamas' October 7 attack, causing concerns that the conflict could escalate into a wider regional crisis. The attacks have impacted global maritime trade, with major shipping and oil companies having to suspend transit through the Red Sea, potentially affecting the global economy.

CNN journalists recently witnessed the US Navy's efforts first-hand on vessels in the southern Red Sea, where jets are being deployed and missiles fired at short notice to counter the Houthi threats. The US response aims to destroy Houthi weapons and infrastructure to safeguard commercial shipping in the region.