Yemen's Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for shooting down a U.S. Reaper drone, the third such incident reported since the beginning of March. The downing of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) comes amidst ongoing U.S. airstrikes in the region, authorized by the Trump administration.
The Houthis, a Zaidi Shia Muslim group that controls much of northern Yemen, have been engaged in a protracted conflict with a Saudi-led coalition backed by the United States. The U.S. military has been providing support to the coalition, including intelligence and logistical assistance, as well as conducting its own airstrikes against Houthi targets.
Details surrounding the latest drone downing remain scarce, but the Houthis have released footage purportedly showing the wreckage of the Reaper drone. U.S. military officials have confirmed the loss of the drone but have not provided further details. The repeated downing of U.S. drones by the Houthis raises concerns about the vulnerability of these aircraft and the effectiveness of current defensive measures. The incidents could also lead to further escalation of the conflict in Yemen.
Houthis Down Another US Reaper Drone Amid Ongoing Airstrikes
Yemeni Houthi rebels have shot down a U.S. Reaper drone, marking the third such incident since early March. The downing occurs as the U.S. military continues its daily airstrike campaign in the region. Tensions remain high in the area, with concerns growing over the escalating conflict. The incident raises questions about drone vulnerability and the effectiveness of current countermeasures.