2024-04-30 09:20:58
An Italian navy ship has shot down a drone launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels that targeted a European merchant ship, the Italian defense ministry said in a statement today, quoted by Reuters.
The statement said the drone was intercepted “in the late morning” near the Bab el Mandeb Strait at the southern end of the Red Sea.
The drone was shot down at a distance of five kilometers from the ship it was aimed at. It was similar to other drones used in previous Houthi attacks.
In addition to the downed drone, the cargo ship was targeted by more drones and missiles, with one missile exploding in the water next to the vessel, but causing only superficial damage, the ministry said.
The Italian frigate “Pheasant” and the cargo ship it is guarding continue south along the planned route to exit the Red Sea, writes BTA.
Italy is part of the EU’s Aspides naval mission to guard ships sailing through the Red Sea.
Iran-backed Houthi rebels have repeatedly fired drones and missiles at merchant ships. They claim they are doing this in solidarity with the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.