US Navy intercepts Houthi drone over Red Sea shipping lanes

The US Navy said one of its destroyers intercepted a drone launched from Houthi-held parts of Yemen toward commercial shipping routes in the southern Red Sea early Sunday. Officials said the incident did not cause injuries or damage.

The interception adds to the long-running threat to civilian shipping in one of the world’s most important trade corridors. Attacks and attempted strikes in the area have repeatedly raised risks for merchant crews and increased pressure on naval forces patrolling the route.

The Navy did not report any further consequences from the launch, and there was no immediate indication that the drone reached its intended target. The episode underscores how regional conflict continues to endanger maritime traffic far beyond Yemen’s shores.

Commercial vessels have faced repeated disruption in the Red Sea as armed groups target shipping tied to the broader Middle East conflict. For ship operators and crews, even unsuccessful attacks can force rerouting, delays, and higher security costs.