The United States is actively working towards achieving a ceasefire in Gaza to ease tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. And to stop Houthi aggression in the Red Sea area. Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder emphasised these points in a recent media briefing. He highlighted the U.S. commitment to humanitarian efforts and regional stability.
Humanitarian Aid and Civilian Protection in Gaza
Ryder emphasised the need for an agreement in Gaza to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to the inhabitants. He acknowledged the conflict’s devastating toll, saying, “This war is undeniably tragic.” Far too many civilians have died. It’s awful to view these photographs. The United States has been vocal with its Israeli partners about the importance of reducing civilian deaths. We understand that they need to do more on this front. We will continue to emphasise that to them, Ryder said.
Ryder said Israel needs to try to avoid harming civilians. He also mentioned that Hamas is partly responsible for some of the casualties because they mix with civilians. The Defense Department will keep supporting USAID in leading global aid efforts.
Temporary Pier and Humanitarian Logistics
The Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore temporary pier, which was important in transporting humanitarian aid to Gaza, is now based in Ashdod, Israel. Ryder mentioned that while no re-anchoring date has been set, the pier was always intended as a temporary solution and its mission will conclude soon.
Diplomatic Efforts on the Israel-Lebanon Border
Turning to the Israel-Lebanon border, Ryder voiced optimism for a diplomatic solution. Despite ongoing tensions, there has been no major regional violence. We continue to communicate with Lebanon, Israel, and others in the region to ensure that this does not escalate into a larger conflict. Of course, the danger here is the risk of miscalculation. Which might lead to a larger battle that no one wants, he said.
Houthi Aggression in the Red Sea
Ryder also addressed ongoing Houthi aggression in the Red Sea. This poses significant risks to maritime safety and freedom of navigation. In the past 24 hours, U.S. Central Command (Centcom) forces successfully intercepted and destroyed five Iranian-backed Houthi uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) – three over the Red Sea and two over Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. These UAVs posed an imminent threat to U.S., coalition forces, and merchant vessels in the region.
Attacks on Merchant Vessels
Centcom reported that Iranian-backed Houthis attacked ships in the Red Sea. They tried to hit the MT Bentley I, a tanker from Panama owned by Israel and operated by Monaco. The attack involved three boats: one unmanned and two small ones. Luckily, no one was hurt and the ship wasn’t damaged. The Houthis also fired a missile at the MT Bentley I, but it didn’t cause any harm.
In another incident, the MT Chios Lion, a tanker from Liberia owned by the Marshall Islands and run by Greece, was hit by an unmanned Houthi boat. The tanker was damaged but didn’t ask for help, and no one was injured.
Regional Stability and Accountability in Gaza
Ryder condemned the reckless behaviour of the Iranian-backed Houthis. This has threatened regional stability. Along with endangering the lives of mariners in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. He noted the irony in the Houthis’ claims of acting on behalf of Palestinians in Gaza while targeting civilians from third countries unrelated to the Gaza conflict.
Centcom reiterated its commitment to working with partners to hold the Houthis accountable and degrade their military capabilities. This continued international effort aims to protect freedom of navigation. Thus ensuring the safety and security of international waters.
The United States remains steadfast in its efforts to promote a ceasefire in Gaza. In order to ease tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. And to counter Houthi aggression in the Red Sea. Through strategic military actions and diplomatic channels , the U.S. aims to foster stability and humanitarian relief in these volatile regions.