U.S. Navy Stops Houthi Attacks on U.S. Cargo Ships in Gulf of Aden

A tense standoff in the Gulf of Aden—U.S. Navy destroyers intercept Houthi attacks targeting American-flagged merchant vessels.

USS O’Kane and USS Stockdale faced one-way aerial drones and an anti-ship cruise missile. Their swift action avoided casualties or damage.

This wasn’t the first attack. Just days earlier, the same destroyers intercepted ballistic missiles and drones in another daring defense.

The vessels under protection, including the Maersk Saratoga, Stena Impeccable, and Liberty Grace, were all bound for Djibouti.

The Houthis claim responsibility, calling these strikes a response to “aggression” against Yemen, linking it to the Gaza crisis.

Despite the threats, U.S. destroyers ensured no harm came to civilian or military vessels, maintaining control of vital shipping lanes.

AIS data suggests evasive measures by merchant ships, with many going silent to avoid detection after recent attacks.

The Gulf of Aden remains volatile, but U.S. naval forces stand resolute in protecting freedom of navigation and ensuring maritime security.