A U.K. Royal Navy warship has successfully intercepted and destroyed a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, according to Britain’s defense secretary, Grant Shapps. The targeted drone was posing a threat to merchant shipping, making this overnight mission a significant defensive action. Notably, this marks the first time since the 1991 Gulf War that the Royal Navy has shot down an aerial target in a combat situation.
Shapps emphasized that the attacks on commercial ships by Yemen’s Houthi rebels represent a direct danger to international commerce and maritime security. As a staunch advocate for the free flow of global trade, the U.K. remains dedicated to repelling these threats.
It is worth noting that global shipping has become increasingly vulnerable during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, with both factions having the backing of Iran. The Houthis, much like Hamas, have been launching attacks on vessels in the Red Sea while also targeting Israel with drones and missiles.
Earlier this month, three commercial ships fell victim to ballistic missile strikes launched from Houthi-controlled Yemen. In response, a U.S. warship successfully neutralized three drones during the assault. Consequently, Maersk, the world’s largest shipping company, has instructed its vessels intending to pass through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea to halt their journeys until further notice. This precautionary measure comes after a missile attack targeted a cargo ship flagged under Liberia.
HMS Diamond had been deployed to the region as a deterrent two weeks ago and stands alongside vessels from countries such as the U.S. and France.
- Two attacks launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels strike container ships in vital Red Sea corridor
- Danish shipping company Maersk to pause its container ship traffic through the Red Sea