US and UK forces shot down 21 drones and missiles fired by Iran-backed Houthis on Tuesday at international shipping in the Red Sea, the US military's Central Command said.

A statement said, “Eighteen OWA [one way attack] UAVs, two anti-ship cruise missiles, and one anti-ship ballistic missile were shot down by a combined effort of F/A-18s from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower,” and air defense fire from supporting warships, including the UK’s HMS Diamond.

US Central Command said there were no injuries or damage reported, adding that this was the 26th Houthi attack on commercial shipping lanes in the Red Sea since November 19.

Iranian-backed Houthi militants have stepped up attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea in protest against Israel's war in Gaza. The attacks began after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei called for blockading Israel.

Various shipping lines have suspended operations, instead taking the longer journey around Africa.

The Houthis have vowed to continue attacks until Israel halts the conflict in Gaza and warned that it would attack US warships if the militia group itself was targeted.

Critics have urged the Biden administration to take a more assertive stance toward the Houthis and Iran to stop the attacks, instead of just defensive measures.

US Deputy Special Envoy to Iran, Abram Paley, told Iran International recently that when it comes to dealing with Iran, “words are not enough” and action has to be taken. However, so far, Washington has not targeted the source of the Houthi attacks in Yemen.