The “largest attack” by Iranian-backed Houthis in the Red Sea to date has been repelled by HMS Diamond, Grant Shapps has said.

The defence secretary said the Royal Navy destroyer, along with US warships, destroyed “multiple attack drones heading for her”.

In a statement on X, he said: “Overnight, HMS Diamond, along with US warships, successfully repelled the largest attack from the Iranian-backed Houthis in the Red Sea to date.

“Deploying Sea Viper missiles and guns, Diamond destroyed multiple attack drones heading for her and commercial shipping in the area, with no injuries or damage sustained to Diamond or her crew.

“The UK alongside allies have previously made clear that these illegal attacks are completely unacceptable and if continued the Houthis will bear the consequences.

“We will take the action needed to protect innocent lives and the global economy.”

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

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