The ultimate party responsible for the recent missile attacks in the Red Sea is Iran, said the national security adviser.
Speaking on Monday, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan revealed that the U.S. is coordinating with allies to determine “appropriate action” following the recent Houthi drone and missile attacks in the Red Sea.
Sullivan emphasized that the responsibility to address the emerging threat posed by the Houthis – backed by Iran – falls on the entire global community, not solely the U.S.
U.S. military officials reported that three commercial ships were targeted in international waters on Sunday, with the USS Carney intercepting and downing three drones while assisting the vessels.
The Pentagon’s deputy press secretary, Sabrina Singh, confirmed that the drones targeted by the USS Carney were headed in its direction, although the intended target is currently unknown.
During the news briefing, Sullivan was questioned about the U.S.’s perceived lack of effective retaliatory measures in response to the ongoing Houthi attacks. He defended the administration’s actions while acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
Sullivan placed the blame for the attacks squarely on Iran, stating that Iran is supplying the Houthis with the weapons being used.
Sullivan also highlighted that the targeted commercial ships had ties to 14 different countries, illustrating the extent of the threat to international peace and stability.
The national security adviser concluded by stressing the urgency of the situation, noting that “the source of global concern and a threat to international peace and stability lies squarely with Iran.”
ABC News’ Matthew Seyler contributed to this report.
