Military Response Looms After Rockets, Drones, and Missiles Fired at Western Warships

The United States and the United Kingdom have issued strong warnings of “severe consequences” after their warships successfully repelled a barrage of 21 rockets, drones, and cruise missiles fired by the Houthi rebel group at western naval vessels in the Red Sea.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking during a visit to Bahrain, stated that further attacks on international shipping by the Houthis could provoke a military response from the West. While Blinken did not outline specific actions, he emphasized, “If this continues, as it did yesterday, there will be consequences.”

In the UK, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps echoed the threat, urging to “watch this space” in response to the growing Houthi aggression. He also directly implicated Iran, accusing the country of assisting the Houthis with intelligence and surveillance support.

The Houthi missile and drone assault occurred amid heightened tensions in the region, following the outbreak of the war in Gaza. The US and UK’s unified stance reflects a growing resolve to protect international maritime security and prevent further disruptions to global shipping routes in the Red Sea.