Israel Deploys Missile Ships to Red Sea Amid Increased Attacks by Iran-backed Militants
Israel Responds to Threats
After a series of attacks from Iran-backed militants, Israel has deployed several ships capable of launching missiles to the Red Sea, where they will join US Navy vessels already stationed there.
Israeli Navy Arrives in Red Sea
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Wednesday that the missile boats had arrived in the Red Sea as part of defensive efforts in the area. The exact number of ships dispatched was not immediately clear.
US Navy Support
The US Navy already had a presence in the Red Sea since October, with guided-missile destroyers and other ships sent to support Israel and prevent the conflict with Hamas from escalating.
Attacks by Houthi Rebels
The force posture change by Israel came after Yemen’s Houthi militants, who are backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for firing long-range missiles and drones at Israel. Israeli fighter jets intercepted the threats, which were located outside Israeli territory. A further threat near the city of Eilat was also intercepted.
Interception Using Arrow System
Israel reported using its Arrow air-defense system to intercept at least one surface-to-surface missile fired by the Houthis. This marks the first time the system has been used since the conflict with Hamas began in October.
Potential Escalation
The interception using the Arrow system suggests that the Houthis fired a ballistic missile, which would be an escalation compared to their previous attack consisting of land-attack cruise missiles and drones.
Proxy Groups Supported by Iran
The Houthis are one of several proxy groups supported by Iran that oppose Israel. Lebanon’s Hezbollah, another Tehran-backed group, has also had skirmishes with the Israeli Defense Forces. Additionally, Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria have launched numerous attacks on US forces in retaliation for US strikes on facilities used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
US Response
The Pentagon has condemned the attacks by Iran-backed proxies and conducted self-defense strikes on facilities associated with the Iranian groups in Syria. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the need to protect US forces and warned of further necessary measures if the attacks continue.
