In a self-defense strike, the United States military targeted a Houthi anti-ship missile that was set to launch into the Red Sea, according to a statement from the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The strike took place on Saturday morning at approximately 3:45 a.m. local time in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen.

The missile, identified by US forces, posed an imminent threat to both merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region. To safeguard freedom of navigation and enhance security for international waters, US forces swiftly destroyed the missile through the self-defense operation.

This strike comes as a response to the 38th attack by the Houthis since November 19, and the second attack that occurred on Friday. In the most recent attack, Houthi terrorists fired an anti-ship ballistic missile from Houthi-controlled areas and managed to strike the Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker M/V Marlin Luanda at around 7:45 p.m. Sanaa time. Although the ship reported damage, no injuries were reported.

The US Central Command has been actively monitoring the situation in Yemen and taking necessary measures to counteract Houthi aggression. As tensions continue to rise, the US is committed to safeguarding the freedom of navigation and protecting the safety of both its naval vessels and merchant ships.

Fox News' Liz Friden has contributed to reporting on this issue.