PENTAGON— In a comprehensive briefing on November 12, 2024, Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder detailed recent U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) operations against Houthi-controlled weapons facilities in Yemen, efforts to counter Iranian-backed groups in Syria, and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin’s forthcoming diplomatic trip to the Indo-Pacific. He also addressed concerns regarding humanitarian aid in Gaza and defense cooperation with allied countries.
Strikes on Houthi and Iranian Targets
Ryder announced that U.S. forces conducted airstrikes from November 9 through 10 on Houthi weapons storage facilities in Yemen. These facilities, located in Houthi-controlled areas, contained advanced weaponry used to target international vessels navigating the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The operation involved U.S. Navy and Air Force assets, including F-35C fighter aircraft, to degrade the Houthis’ capability to pose threats to regional partners and civilian vessels. The targeted airstrikes were part of a broader effort to respond to recurring Houthi attacks on U.S. and allied vessels in the region.
CENTCOM also launched nine airstrikes on targets in Syria connected to Iranian-backed groups in retaliation for two attacks on U.S. personnel at Mission Support Site Green Village in northeast Syria on November 10. The attacks, involving a UAV and rocket fire, prompted CENTCOM to neutralize sites used by Iranian-backed groups to prevent future threats to U.S. and coalition forces engaged in defeating ISIS. CENTCOM Commander General Michael Kurilla emphasized a zero-tolerance stance against such attacks, stating, “We will continue to take every step necessary to protect our personnel and coalition partners.”
Secretary Austin’s Calls and Upcoming Trip
Ryder disclosed that Secretary Austin held discussions with Ukrainian Minister of Defense Rustam Umarov to review the battlefield situation in Ukraine and reaffirm U.S. support against Russian aggression. The conversation also highlighted the U.S. commitment to delivering necessary security assistance to Ukraine. As part of ongoing U.S. strategic efforts, Austin will embark on a nine-day trip to the Indo-Pacific region, visiting Australia, the Philippines, Laos, and Fiji to bolster defense ties. He will attend the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM-Plus) in Laos to continue advancing cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Humanitarian Aid and Israel-Gaza Tensions
Ryder addressed concerns raised by humanitarian organizations over the aid situation in Gaza, noting that Secretary Austin had urged Israeli officials to allow more aid flow into Gaza. Recent actions by Israel, including reopening crossings and increasing delivery routes, represent progress, though the U.S. continues to press Israel to improve the accessibility of essential supplies. While Ryder acknowledged these steps, he recognized the ongoing crisis in Gaza, noting that the U.S. government continues to consult with Israeli officials on expanding aid.
Other Topics and Global Relations
Ryder responded to questions about potential changes in U.S.-India military cooperation under the incoming administration, stressing the established strength of the U.S.-India defense relationship. He also dismissed reports of anticipated Pentagon responses to future presidential orders, affirming the department’s commitment to an orderly transition.
In a final note, Ryder clarified that recent attacks on U.S. naval vessels in the Arabian Sea by Iranian-backed Houthis were effectively repelled by U.S. forces, emphasizing that U.S. assets in the region maintain a robust defensive posture to protect against hostile actions.–News Desk