In a series of incidents, Houthi militants have once again targeted commercial shipping in the region, prompting a swift response from the United States Navy. The M/V BLAAMANEN and the M/V SAIBABA became the latest victims of the ongoing attacks, as confirmed by the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

According to CENTCOM, the Norwegian-flagged M/V BLAAMANEN, a chemical/oil tanker, narrowly avoided a one-way attack drone, escaping without injuries or damage. On the other hand, the Gabon-owned, Indian-flagged M/V SAIBABA was struck by a one-way attack drone, although no injuries were reported. The distress calls from these attacks were quickly addressed by the USS LABOON (DDG 58).

These recent attacks mark the 14th and 15th instances of Houthi militants targeting commercial shipping since October 17, CENTCOM stated. The volatile situation has raised concerns about the safety of ships transiting through the region.

In a separate incident, CENTCOM confirmed that two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles were fired into international shipping lanes in the Southern Red Sea from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. Fortunately, no ships reported any harm during this episode.

The USS LABOON's rapid response highlights the effectiveness of their capabilities. Joining the destroyers Carney and Mason, the Laboon has taken down numerous drones in recent weeks and provided assistance to commercial vessels amidst escalating tensions stemming from the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Earlier this month, U.S. Central Command released a statement asserting that the Houthi attacks are suspected to be sponsored by Iran. There is "every reason to believe that these attacks, while launched by the Houthis in Yemen, are fully enabled by Iran," stated CENTCOM. In response to these alarming attacks, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the establishment of a multinational task force on December 18, aimed at safeguarding civilian ships in the region.

The USS Laboon is an integral part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower's carrier strike group, which commenced its scheduled deployment from Norfolk, Virginia, in October. The carrier successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz into the Persian Gulf last month.

As tensions persist in the region, the safety and security of commercial shipping remain a top priority for the international community. The ongoing threat of Houthi attacks underscores the need for continued collaboration and vigilance to ensure the safe passage of vessels through these troubled waters.