This Post Is Recently Updated on Dec 27, 2023 @ 20:55 pm by TBB Desk
The Red Sea is currently experiencing increased tensions due to escalating attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on passing ships. In response to these attacks, which have intensified since the onset of Israel’s war on Gaza, the Pentagon announced plans to expand its maritime force in the region to counter missile and drone strikes. Despite initial expectations of broad international participation, France, Italy, and Spain have withdrawn from the new force, as reported by Al Jazeera.
Who are the Houthis?
The Houthis are an armed faction from the Zaidi sub-sect of Yemen’s Shia Muslim minority. They emerged in the 1990s, primarily in response to corruption in the regime of then-president Ali Abdullah Saleh. Since 2014, the group has been involved in a civil war against Yemen’s government, supported by a Saudi Arabia and UAE-led coalition. This conflict has led to around 377,000 deaths and displaced four million people. The Houthis, aligning with Iran’s “axis of resistance,” control significant areas of Yemen, including the capital Sanaa and the Red Sea port of Hudaydah.
Reasons Behind the Red Sea Attacks
The Houthis have increased their offensive in the Red Sea, mirroring Hezbollah’s tactics against Israel and Iraqi militias targeting U.S. interests in Iraq and Syria. On December 9, they announced their intention to target all vessels bound for Israel. This declaration followed an unsuccessful missile strike on a Hong Kong-flagged ship on December 14. The U.S. has intercepted multiple Houthi drones, including an incident on December 23 involving a US destroyer.
Recent Attacks and International Response
Significant attacks include drone strikes on the Liberian-flagged MSC Palatium III and missile strikes on the Liberian-flagged Al Jasrah and Hong Kong-flagged Maersk Gibraltar. The U.S. has accused Iran of aiding the Houthis in these attacks, a claim Iran denies. The impact of these incidents extends beyond the immediate region, as approximately 12% of global shipping traffic passes through the Suez Canal into the Red Sea. Due to these threats, shipping companies are considering longer, alternative routes, leading to increased costs and delays.
Key Points
- Escalation of Houthi Rebel Attacks: The Red Sea faces heightened tensions due to increased attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
- Withdrawal of International Support: France, Italy, and Spain have pulled out of the proposed maritime force expansion.
- Houthis’ Motivation and Actions: The Houthis, supported by Iran, have intensified attacks, particularly targeting ships bound for Israel.
- Global Shipping Impact: The conflict has caused disruptions in global shipping routes, leading to alternative, costlier pathways.
