'Friendly Fire' Incident in Red Sea: Two US Navy Pilots Shot Down
Two US Navy pilots were shot down in a Red Sea friendly fire incident involving the USS Gettysburg. Both survived, as US forces confront escalating threats from Huthi rebels in the region.
Washington: A case of "friendly fire" over the Red Sea early Sunday resulted in two US Navy pilots being shot down, according to a statement from the United States Central Command (CENTCOM). Both pilots were rescued, with one sustaining minor injuries.
The mishap occurred when the guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg mistakenly targeted an F/A-18 fighter jet operating from the USS Harry S. Truman. CENTCOM confirmed that the incident was not due to hostile action and announced a full investigation to determine the cause.
"This incident highlights the complexities and risks involved in military operations," CENTCOM said in a statement from its Florida headquarters.
The Red Sea has become a flashpoint for escalating tensions, as US forces have been actively responding to threats from Yemen’s Huthi rebels. Just hours before the incident, the United States struck targets in Yemen’s rebel-controlled capital following a Huthi missile attack that injured civilians in Tel Aviv.
American forces also intercepted multiple Huthi drones and an anti-ship cruise missile in the Red Sea. The Huthi rebels, who have declared solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, have repeatedly targeted vessels in the region, claiming they have links to Israel.
The friendly fire incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of operating in such a volatile region where tensions remain high.
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