In a tense series of events, a US warship, the USS Mason, came under attack in the Gulf of Aden after responding to a distress call from a commercial tanker. The incident occurred on Sunday, following the seizure of the tanker, named Central Park, by armed individuals. The US Navy, abiding by international maritime norms, rushed to the aid of the vessel.

According to the US Central Command, the Central Park's crew reported being under attack from an unknown entity while carrying a cargo of phosphoric acid. The distress signal prompted the USS Mason and allied ships from a counter-piracy task force to demand the release of the tanker upon arrival.

The situation intensified when five armed individuals attempted to flee via a small boat. The USS Mason pursued them, leading to their surrender. They were later identified as Somali individuals. The USS Mason's Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) team detained the attackers before returning to the Mason to ensure the safety of the crew.

However, less than two hours later, at 1:41 a.m. local time on Monday, two ballistic missiles were launched toward the general location of the USS Mason and Central Park. These missiles, fired from areas controlled by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, landed harmlessly in the Gulf of Aden, around ten nautical miles away from the ships. No damage or injuries were reported as a result of the missile launch.

The incident follows a series of attacks by the Houthi forces on US interests in the region, as well as Israel, since the October 7 Hamas attacks. Concerns are mounting that the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas could escalate further across the region.

While tensions are high, Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed that the conflict has not yet become regional. However, he noted that Iranian proxies have been attempting to take advantage of the situation to further their own goals.

Maritime domain security has become a priority for the US, as emphasized by Gen. Erik Kurilla, commander of US Central Command. The US will continue to work with allies and partners to ensure the safety and security of international shipping lanes.

The Liberian-flagged Central Park, managed by UK-based Zodiac Maritime, has been confirmed safe, with no harm to the crew, vessel, or cargo. Zodiac Maritime, listed as a business belonging to Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer's Ofer Global, clarified that it is not owned by Ofer Global.

As the situation unfolds, the US remains vigilant in preventing the conflict from further spilling over into a broader regional conflict. The US has intercepted several cruise missiles and attack drones launched by the Houthi rebels towards Israel or US assets in recent weeks. The Houthi naval forces have also warned ships in the Red Sea flying the Israeli flag of potential military operations until Israel's aggression against Gaza stops.

The US continues to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate measures to ensure stability in the region.