### US Navy Thwarts Major Houthi Missile and Drone Attack in Red Sea

The US Navy successfully intercepted a significant barrage of missiles and drones aimed at three of its warships in the Red Sea on Thursday, according to two US defense officials. This incident marks one of the most substantial attacks on US naval forces in the Middle East to date.

The assault targeted the USS Spruance, USS Stockdale, and USS Indianapolis, as they navigated north of the Bab el-Mandeb strait. The USS Spruance and USS Stockdale are both guided missile destroyers, while the USS Indianapolis is a littoral combat ship. According to Houthi army spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yehya Saree, the US ships were targeted because they were allegedly en route to support Israel.

The operation involved a total of 23 projectiles, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, launched by the Houthi navy, air force, and missile force. Saree claimed that the operation resulted in "direct hits," a statement that US officials have refuted.

The Houthis, backed by Iran, have consistently targeted US naval and commercial vessels in the Red Sea since the Israel-Hamas conflict began in Gaza last year. Past engagements include the USS Carney shooting down 14 Houthi drones in December while protecting the guided-missile destroyer, allegedly making it one of the most heavily engaged ships since World War II. In February, a Houthi cruise missile came within a mile of the USS Gravely destroyer.

More recently, the Houthis fired a missile into central Israel, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to vow serious repercussions. This strike led to alarms at Ben Gurion International Airport and surrounding areas, causing travelers to seek shelter.

In light of these persistent threats, the interception of this latest barrage represents a critical moment in the ongoing tensions involving the US, Israel, and the Houthi forces.