# US Navy warship targeted by ballistic missiles after coming to aid of seized tanker in the Gulf of Aden
A tense situation unfolded in the Gulf of Aden as a US Navy guided-missile destroyer, the USS Mason, came under attack from Houthi rebel-controlled areas in Yemen. This came after the warship responded to a distress call from a commercial tanker, the Central Park, which had been seized by armed individuals.
According to a statement from the US Central Command, the USS Mason and other allied ships arrived at the scene and demanded the release of the Central Park. The armed individuals on the tanker attempted to flee but were pursued and ultimately surrendered by the USS Mason.
Shortly after this incident, two ballistic missiles were fired from Houthi rebel-controlled areas in Yemen toward the general location of the USS Mason and the Central Park. Fortunately, the missiles landed approximately ten nautical miles from the ships, causing no damage or reported injuries.
The Central Park, a Liberian-flagged chemical tanker managed by Zodiac Maritime, was confirmed to be safe, with all crew and cargo unharmed. It was also noted that the tanker has links to an Israeli-owned company, though the spokesperson for Zodiac Maritime clarified that it is not owned by the company in question.
General Erik Kurilla, commander of US Central Command, emphasized the importance of maritime domain security, stating that it is essential to regional stability. He further expressed the commitment to working with allies and partners to ensure the safety and security of international shipping lanes.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by vessels navigating through the Gulf of Aden and the ongoing tensions in the region. The US Navy’s response to the distress call and subsequent targeting by ballistic missiles underscores the complexities of the maritime security environment in this area.