In a concerning development, the Pentagon has announced an ongoing investigation into reports of a drone attack on a US warship and several commercial vessels in the Red Sea, near the coast of Yemen. The attack is believed to have been carried out by Houthi rebels operating in the region.

The US Department of Defense released a brief statement acknowledging the attacks, stating, "We're aware of reports regarding attacks on the USS Carney and commercial vessels in the Red Sea and will provide information as it becomes available." The Pentagon has not provided further details regarding the extent of the damage or any casualties resulting from the attack.

Shortly after the Pentagon's statement, the Houthis, who reportedly have the backing of Iran, claimed responsibility for the attack. According to a spokesperson for the rebel group, two commercial ships, Unity Explorer and Number 9, were targeted after they ignored warnings from the Houthi navy.

While the Houthis alleged that the attacked ships were Israeli, maritime records indicate that Unity Explorer is flagged in the Bahamas and Number 9 in Panama. Both vessels are known to have operated in the Red Sea area or its vicinity recently.

This incident marks an escalation in the Houthi rebels' targeting of commercial vessels in the Red Sea, a crucial naval route between Europe, Asia, and East Africa. The group has previously targeted ships in the region, with their most recent attack resulting in the seizure of a British-owned and Japanese-operated cargo ship, the Galaxy Leader.

The Houthis have been actively engaged in conflict since the war in Gaza began earlier this month. Despite launching several missile and drone attacks on Israel, the rebels have not inflicted significant damage thus far.

The United States has encountered Houthi aggression in the past. In mid-October, the USS Carney successfully intercepted three ground-launched missiles and multiple drones fired by Houthi militants. The US military justified its actions by claiming that the missiles were potentially heading towards Israel.

Maritime security specialists, in a report to Reuters, revealed that an unidentified bulk carrier ship was reportedly struck by at least two drones in the Red Sea. Another container ship reportedly suffered damage from a drone attack approximately 63 miles northwest of the northern Yemeni port of Hodeidah, according to the company Ambrey.

Earlier today, Britain's Maritime Trade Operations agency received reports of a drone attack in the Bab el-Mandab strait, a strategic waterway between Yemen, Djibouti, and Eriteria. Vessels in the vicinity have been urged to exercise caution.

As the investigation continues, concerns grow regarding the safety of commercial vessels navigating through the Red Sea. The international community will be closely monitoring the situation and the response from the United States and other affected countries.