According to information published by the US DoD on November 26, 2023, the U.S. Navy, along with its coalition partners, responded to a distress signal from the commercial vessel M/V Central Park, under attack by unknown assailants.
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US Navy's Arleigh Burke class destroyer USS Mason. (Picture source: Dvids)
The attackers, five armed individuals, attempted to escape but were pursued and captured by the USS Mason, ensuring the safety of the M/V Central Park's crew.
The situation escalated when, at approximately 0141 on Nov. 27 Sanaa time, a ballistic missile was launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, targeting the general vicinity of the USS Mason and M/V Central Park.
The missile landed in the Gulf of Aden, ten nautical miles away from the ships, causing no damage or injuries. The USS Mason, part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, was concluding its rescue operation at the time.
Context
The region has seen increased tensions and security risks, particularly highlighted by the hijacking of the Bahamas-flagged vessel M/V Galaxy Leader by Yemen's Houthi rebels. This incident occurred approximately 50 miles west of Hodeida, Yemen, on November 19, 2023.
The hijacking of the GalaxyLeader by the Houthi rebels was a notable event, as the ship was diverted to the port of Hodeidah, Yemen. This action was part of the rebels' broader strategy of targeting Israeli vessels in response to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Amid these heightened tensions, there is an ongoing concern for the safety of U.S. and Israeli assets in the region, particularly in light of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
