US And Allies Unite To Safeguard Red Sea Route Amidst Spike In Houthi Attacks

The United States and its allies are working to initiate a global effort to protect ships travelling through the Red Sea. The action was taken in reaction to a spike in Houthi attacks, which raised questions about the safety of commercial traffic in this vital waterway.

This international effort is expected to be formally announced soon after extensive discussions caused by the recent spike in armed conflict. The conflict started on October 7, when an attack by Hamas militants in Israel sparked Israeli retaliation in the Gaza Strip.

The Houthi rebels, who are based in Yemen and are backed by Iran, responded by announcing that they would continue to attack Israeli assets until Israel ends its campaign against Hamas.

Iran’s Defense Minister Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani criticised the plan, calling it “foolish” and warning of potential difficulties for the U.S. if pursued. He asserted Iran’s dominance in the region, claiming no one could operate there without consequences.

Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks highlighted the need for an international solution, acknowledging the challenge as a global problem requiring a collaborative approach with allies and partners. While details about the plan, described as a maritime task force, are expected to be disclosed soon, the Biden administration faces a delicate situation.

Officials are cautious about responding aggressively to avoid being drawn into a broader Middle East conflict desired by Iran and its proxies, including the Houthi rebels.

The urgent need to address this issue is demonstrated by the recent upsurge in attacks on the Red Sea, a vital global trade route that accounts for 12% of all trade. During their meeting in Saudi Arabia, Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan discussed efforts to prevent future Houthi attacks.

A missile strike on the fuel tanker Strinda, which was sailing toward Italy, and a gunfight between armed guards on the Ardmore Encounter and assailants on a small boat are two recent Red Sea incidents. The Houthis used port intelligence to bolster their justification for attacking the latter, arguing it was headed for Israel.

Expanded military presence in the region, according to the U.S., should prevent future Houthi attacks; however, some critics, especially Republican lawmakers, feel that the Biden administration has been overly cautious in its response to militant activities backed by Iran and the Houthis.

The House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman, Representative Michael McCaul, questioned the administration’s commitment to handling the situation.

Reference: Bloomberg

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