US Navy Friendly Fire Incident Over Red Sea

The Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen has claimed to have shot down a U.S. MQ-9 aircraft, marking their second claim within 72 hours, while also falsely asserting attacks on Israeli targets. In response, U.S. forces have conducted airstrikes targeting Houthi facilities, including a reported defensive action against missile threats to the USS Harry S. Truman. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that they intercepted several Houthi missiles over the Red Sea. Additionally, a U.S. Navy F/A-18 fighter jet was mistakenly shot down by friendly fire from the USS Gettysburg, with both pilots rescued. Despite the CENTCOM clarification, the Houthis continue to claim responsibility for various attacks in the region, further escalating tensions. The ongoing conflict risks a broader confrontation in the Middle East, with retaliatory strikes and missile threats becoming increasingly common.