Houthis Launch Missile, Drone Attacks on US Warships Off Yemen's Coast

US Navy reports no casualties or damage, but incident highlights tensions in the region

Attack comes as US and Iran continue to negotiate over nuclear deal

Sanaa, Yemen - The Houthi rebels in Yemen have launched a series of missile and drone attacks on US warships off the coast of Yemen, the US Navy has reported. The attacks, which took place on Tuesday, caused no casualties or damage to the ships, but they highlight the ongoing tensions in the region.

Houthis claim responsibility

The Houthis have claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying they were in response to US aggression against Yemen. The US has been supporting the Saudi-led coalition that has been fighting the Houthis since 2015.

Tensions remain high

The attacks come as the US and Iran continue to negotiate over a new nuclear deal. The Houthis are backed by Iran, and the attacks could be seen as a way of putting pressure on the US in the negotiations.

Expert analysis

"The attacks are a reminder of the ongoing tensions in the region," said Michael Knights, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. "The Houthis are a powerful force in Yemen, and they are not going to give up their fight against the Saudi-led coalition."

Background

The Houthis are a Shia rebel group that has been fighting the Yemeni government since 2014. The group has received support from Iran, and it has been able to seize control of large parts of Yemen. The US has been supporting the Saudi-led coalition that has been fighting the Houthis since 2015. The conflict has caused a humanitarian crisis in Yemen, with millions of people displaced and facing food shortages.

US response

The US Navy has said that it is investigating the attacks and will take appropriate action. The US has also condemned the attacks and called on the Houthis to cease their attacks on US forces.

Regional implications

The attacks could have implications for the region. They could further escalate tensions between the US and Iran, and they could also make it more difficult to negotiate a new nuclear deal.