The United States has stated that the recent attempted hijacking of an Israel-linked cargo ship in the region was likely orchestrated by Somali pirates rather than Houthi fighters from Yemen. Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Patrick Ryder confirmed on Monday that while a Houthi connection has not been ruled out, initial indications suggest that the attackers are of Somali origin.

The incident occurred over the weekend when armed men boarded the tanker Central Park. However, their plans were thwarted by the arrival of the US warship Mason, resulting in the capture of the assailants. The US Navy's prompt action prevented the hijacking from escalating further.

The timing of the attempted hijacking is concerning, as Yemen's Houthi rebels have recently conducted a series of ship raids in the region. Additionally, the US reported that ballistic missiles were fired from Houthi-controlled territory towards American ships shortly after the attack on the cargo ship.

The Houthi rebels have gained significant control over northern Yemen during their yearslong war against the country's government and a coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Though the intensity of the conflict has decreased, the Houthis have continued launching attacks, including against Israel amid ongoing hostilities with the Palestinian armed group, Hamas, in the Gaza Strip.

It is worth noting that the missile and drone attacks directed towards Israel have largely been unsuccessful. However, the Houthis have targeted commercial ships in the Red Sea that they claim have connections to Israel.

The Pentagon confirmed that the ballistic missiles launched over the weekend were aimed in the general direction of US ships but fell into the ocean approximately 19km (10 nautical miles) away without causing any injuries.

While Yemen's government in Aden has blamed the Houthis for the attack, the group has not acknowledged either the missile launch or the attempted seizure of the vessel.

The United States, along with international counterparts, will continue to investigate the incident and monitor the evolving situation in the region.