The US is contemplating “appropriate action” in reaction to Houthi missile attacks in the Red Sea

White House national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, stated on Monday that the U.S. is in discussions with allies regarding the “appropriate action” to address the recent Houthi drone and missile attacks in the Red Sea.

Sullivan emphasized the need for collective global efforts, not solely led by the U.S., to address the emerging challenge posed by the Houthis, who are supported by Iran. The U.S. intends to take suitable action in consultation with other nations, choosing the time and place strategically.

On Sunday, three commercial ships were targeted in the international waters of the Red Sea, as reported by U.S. military officials. Houthi militants claimed responsibility for this incident, escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war.

The USS Carney, a Navy destroyer patrolling the area, successfully intercepted and shot down three drones while assisting the vessels during the attack, according to CENTCOM.

“The Carney took defensive action when a drone was approaching, but, at this time, we cannot confirm that the Carney was the intended target,” stated Sabrina Singh, the deputy press secretary at the Pentagon, on Monday. She added that the Pentagon was not dismissing the possibility.

During a press briefing at the White House, ABC Chief White House Correspondent Mary Bruce raised concerns about the perceived ineffectiveness of U.S. retaliatory efforts, noting the ongoing Houthi missile and drone attacks in the Red Sea. These attacks have led U.S. ships in the region to respond defensively.

In response, Jake Sullivan defended the “steps” taken by the administration but acknowledged the persistence of what he described as “very alarming behavior.”

“We’ve implemented various measures, such as deploying carriers, air wings, and other resources, to prevent the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza from escalating into a larger, regional war,” he explained. “However, we are closely monitoring concerning behavior, particularly two aspects.

Firstly, there are attacks by Iranian-enabled and aligned Shia militia groups in Iraq and Syria targeting our forces. In response, we are taking measures to safeguard our personnel and retaliate against these groups.”