Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed responsibility on Monday for a second attack in 24 hours on the USS Harry S Truman and its accompanying warships in the northern Red Sea, calling it retaliation for US airstrikes.
A rebel spokesperson said that “for the second time in 24 hours,” Houthi fighters launched missiles and drones at the American carrier strike group.
The attacks follow US airstrikes on Sunday that targeted Houthi positions in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, as well as other provinces, including Saada, the group’s stronghold near the Saudi border.
The strikes resulted in at least 53 rebel deaths and over 100 injuries.
In response, the Houthi political bureau vowed to “meet escalation with escalation.” The group denied that its actions threaten international shipping and reaffirmed its support for Gaza.
While the rebels claimed to have targeted the USS Harry S Truman, US officials told the Associated Press they were “not tracking anything.”