U.S. Operations in the Middle East: USS Harry S. Truman, USS Carl Vinson, and Friendship 25 Exercise
US Central Command confirms that on April 20-21, 2025 both carrier groups continue carrying out "24/7" strikes on Houthi positions in Yemen.
MIDDLE EAST — The United States maintains a robust naval presence in the Middle East, with the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) and USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) conducting operations against Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen. Concurrently, U.S. Army units participate in the Friendship 25 exercise with Saudi Arabia to strengthen regional alliances.
These efforts aim to degrade Houthi capabilities, secure critical maritime routes, and counter Iran’s influence through a combination of direct action and partnership-building.
Recent Key Developments
2025-04-17, 12:00 UTC: U.S. forces, supported by the USS Harry S. Truman and USS Carl Vinson, struck the Ras Isa fuel port in Yemen as part of Operation Rough Rider, targeting a key Houthi economic and military asset.
2025-04-21, 08:00 UTC: CENTCOM confirmed ongoing 24/7 operations by both carriers against Houthi targets to protect Red Sea shipping.
2025-04-21, 10:00 UTC: The Friendship 25 exercise began in Saudi Arabia, involving U.S. Army Task Force Reaper and the Royal Saudi Land Forces.
