The United States says it has shot down 12 attack drones and five missiles in the Southern Red Sea, which it claimed were launched by the Iran-backed Houthis. <br />''<br />''There was no damage to ships in the area or injuries reported, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said.<br />''<br />''The US announcement followed the Israel Defence Forces' statement on downing a hostile aerial target heading toward Israel. Iran-backed Houthis claimed firing drones at Eilat in solidarity with Gaza. IDF Spokesman Rear Adm Daniel Hagari termed the attacks "acts of terror" directed by Iran.<br />''<br />''<span style="color: #222222;">The USS Laboon, a guided-missile destroyer, and F-18 fighter jets from the Eisenhower carrier strike group are in the southern Red Sea as part of a US-led coalition meant to protect shipping lanes from attack by the Houthis in the key Bab el-Mandeb strait. </span><br />