The US Navy said one of its destroyers intercepted an anti-ship ballistic missile fired from Yemen toward commercial vessels in the southern Red Sea. The missile was shot down before it could reach the shipping lane, according to the Navy statement cited by Reuters.

The incident adds to the ongoing threat facing civilian and commercial traffic in one of the world’s most important maritime routes. Shipping through the Red Sea has been repeatedly disrupted by attacks tied to Yemen’s Houthi movement, raising risks for crews, cargo, and regional trade.

US officials have increased naval patrols in response to the campaign, which has drawn international condemnation for endangering civilian shipping. The latest interception underscores how fragile the route remains as maritime security efforts continue.

Reuters said the destroyer USS Stockdale carried out the interception. No immediate report of damage or casualties was included in the account.