ATHENS: The European Union (EU) naval mission protecting vessels crossing the Red Sea on Sunday said its Psara frigate had destroyed two unmanned aerial vehicles in the Gulf of Aden.
The Aspides mission started its operations in February in response to drone and missile attacks on ships by Yemeni Houthis. The Houthis describe the attacks as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Israel’s war on Gaza.
Other countries, including the United States, also have deployed naval forces operating in the area.
In a major development, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq and the Houthis of Yemen declared a combined military offensive against Israel. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree stated that the attack involved several winged missiles but did not specify the exact target.
Last month a merchant ship sustained damage from a drone attack in the Red Sea near Yemen with no reported injuries, according to a British maritime security agency.
In response to escalating incidents, the US Central Command has also destroyed many Houthi drones.
The operation was part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of key maritime routes in the region amidst increasing tensions and threats from Houthi forces.