The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the Iranian-backed Houthi fighters fired one anti-ship ballistic missile from Yemen into the Gulf of Aden, but it caused no damage to any vessels, Reuters reports.

“The missile did not impact any vessels and there were no injuries or damage reported,” CENTCOM added in a statement.

“United States Central Command then successfully engaged and destroyed four unmanned aerial systems (UAVs) and one surface-to-air missile in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, it said, adding “it was determined these weapons presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region.”

Houthi rebels have repeatedly launched drones and missiles against international commercial shipping in the Gulf of Aden since mid-November, saying they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians against Israel’s military actions in Gaza.