ABOARD THE USS LABOON IN THE RED SEA (AP) — The U.S. Navy has spent years preparing for potential conflicts with major global powers such as the Soviet Union, Russia, and China. However, the Navy now finds itself engaged in a fierce battle with an Iran-backed rebel group based in Yemen, known as the Houthi rebels.
This conflict, which has largely been overshadowed by the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, has become the most intense sea battle the Navy has faced since World War II, according to its leaders and experts who spoke with The Associated Press.
The Navy’s mission to ensure open international waterways is now being put to the test by the Houthis, who have significantly increased their arsenal from small arms and vehicles to a wide range of drones, missiles, and other advanced weaponry. The frequent attacks by the Houthis have targeted over 50 vessels since November, leading to a decrease in shipping volume in the crucial Red Sea corridor that connects to the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean.
While the Houthis claim their attacks are in support of Palestinians and against the war in Gaza, their actions also indicate a push to strengthen their position within Yemen. As the conflict escalates, the risks for U.S. sailors, allied forces, and commercial ships only continue to rise.
Commander Eric Blomberg from the USS Laboon emphasized the seriousness of the threats faced by ships in the area, stating, “We only have to get it wrong once. The Houthis just have to get one through.”
Seconds to act
The intense nature of the conflict is evident on the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer Laboon, where repeated launches have burned away the paint around the missile pods. Sailors on the ship often have mere seconds to identify incoming threats, communicate with other vessels, and respond to Houthi missile attacks that can travel at or beyond the speed of sound.
Captain David Wroe, overseeing the guided missile destroyers, described the relentless nature of the battle, with attacks occurring almost daily in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
While the Navy has experienced combat in the region before, the direct attacks by the Houthis on both commercial and military vessels mark a new level of sustained conflict that hasn’t been seen since World War II.
Experts warn that if the situation is allowed to continue, the Houthis could become an even more formidable force capable of inflicting significant damage. The stakes are high for all parties involved, as the Navy strives to protect ships and maintain control of crucial maritime routes.
Dangers at sea and in the air
In addition to the risks at sea, the U.S.-led campaign has also involved numerous airstrikes targeting Houthi positions within Yemen. The Houthis have demonstrated the ability to target maritime shipping and U.S. warships, with the support and training they receive from Iran being a major concern.
Rear Admiral Marc Miguez highlighted the collaboration between Iran and the Houthis, with Iran providing financial and intelligence support as well as continuing to arm the rebel group in defiance of U.N. sanctions.
While the Navy remains vigilant against threats from the air and sea, there are tensions around the level of response to the Houthi attacks. The complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, including efforts to reduce tensions with Iran and ongoing peace negotiations with other actors, have influenced the U.S. approach to the conflict.
Despite the challenges and risks involved, the Navy remains committed to its mission in the region, working closely with allies to counter the growing threat posed by the Houthis and protect vital maritime interests.
Follow AP’s coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
