U.S. Navy Rescues Crew After Cargo Ship Attacked by Iranian-Backed Terrorists

In a dramatic turn of events, the U.S. Navy was compelled to rescue a crew member from a cargo ship attacked by Iranian-backed terrorists in the Gulf of Aden on Thursday. The M/V Verbena, a Palauan-flagged, Ukrainian-owned, and Polish-operated bulk cargo carrier, was struck by two anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCM) launched by the Houthis, causing severe damage and fires aboard the vessel.

Details of the Attack:

• Immediate Response: The crew managed to contain the fires, but one civilian mariner was severely injured. Aircraft from the USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) evacuated the injured mariner to a nearby partner force ship for urgent medical attention.

• CENTCOM's Statement: U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) condemned the attack, emphasizing that such reckless actions by the Houthis jeopardize regional stability and endanger the lives of mariners across the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The Houthis' aggression, purportedly in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, paradoxically targets third-country nationals unaffiliated with the conflict.

• Broader Implications: This incident exacerbates the ongoing threat to maritime safety, complicating efforts to deliver critical aid to Yemen and Gaza. CENTCOM reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with partners to hold the Houthis accountable and diminish their military capabilities.

The Houthis have been emboldened by President Joe Biden’s leniency, failing to impose strict repercussions for their terrorist activities. This inaction has encouraged further provocations, as seen in this recent missile attack.

This assault coincides with heightened tensions in the region, following Hezbollah's launch of over 300 rockets into northern Israel over the last 48 hours. The convergence of these threats underscores the volatile security environment and the necessity for a robust response to deter further aggression.

As the international community watches closely, the need for decisive action to protect maritime routes and ensure regional stability has never been more critical.

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