In a surprising incident above the Red Seaand F/A-18 fighter plane of the US Navy was mistakenly shot down by the guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg early Sunday, confirmed the United States Central Command (CENTCOM). The incident, considered a case of friendly firemade it possible to recover both pilots alive, although one of them suffered minor injuries.
Incident details
Selon CENTCOM, l’F/A-18 fighter planeoperating from the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Trumanwas unintentionally targeted and hit by a missile coming from theUSS Gettysburg. Officials stressed that the incident was not not the result of hostile fireand a full investigation is underway to determine the circumstances.
“This incident was not the result of hostile fire, and a full investigation is underway,” CENTCOM said, noting the Navy's commitment to understanding and addressing this operational failure.
This unfortunate event highlights the risks involved in a region where tensions have increased significantly due to ongoing conflicts involving the Houthi rebels in Yemen and the wider instability in the Middle East.
Growing Regional Tensions
The friendly fire incident comes amid increased US military operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Adenareas which have experienced repeated attacks by Houthi rebels Yemenis against merchant ships linked to Israel. Over the past year, the United States has actively patrolled the region to protect commercial transportation and deter Houthi aggression.
On Saturday, the American army carried out strikes in the Yemen's rebel-controlled capital following a Houthi missile attack who injured civilians Tel Avivthe commercial center of Israel. The Houthis, who declared their solidarity with the Palestinians in Gazalaunched missile and drone attacks in the region, further complicating US operations.
American forces reportedly intercepted several drones Houthis and a anti-ship cruise missile over the Red Sea before the friendly fire incident.
Implications and Next Steps
This incident highlights the complexities and dangers of U.S. military operations in volatile regions like the Middle Eastwhere split-second decisions can lead to unforeseen consequences. While the Marine investigating causequestions regarding coordination and command protocols in high-pressure situations are likely to arise.
