The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that it destroyed seven cruise missiles intended for launch from Houthi-controlled areas towards targets in the Red Sea, according to a statement issued on Saturday.

The statement from CENTCOM elaborated that "US Central Command (CENTCOM) forces destroyed seven Iranian-backed Houthi mobile anti-ship cruise missiles that were prepared to launch towards the Red Sea in self-defense."

Additionally, CENTCOM reported an attack on a British vessel, resulting in an oil spill and significant damage. They stated, "Iran-backed Houthi terrorists attacked the M/V Rubymar, a Belize-flagged, UK-owned bulk carrier. The ship is anchored but slowly taking on water. The unprovoked and reckless attack by Iran-backed Houthi terrorists caused significant damage to the ship, which caused an 18-mile oil slick."

Furthermore, it was noted that the M/V Rubymar was transporting over 41,000 tons of fertilizer, which could worsen the environmental disaster if spilled into the Red Sea.

Since November 19, the Houthis have been conducting attacks on merchant ships suspected to be linked to or headed towards Israeli Occupation ports in response to the aggression on Gaza. In response, British and American forces have conducted strikes on Houthi-affiliated sites.

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