Key Details
The United States, along with 12 other countries, has issued a stern warning to Houthi rebels in Yemen regarding their attacks on vessels in the Red Sea. The militants have carried out at least 23 attacks in response to the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza since December 19.
Potential Military Action
There may be potential targeted military action if the attacks continue. A senior Biden administration official has emphasized that the Iranian-backed Houthis should not expect any further warnings from the US and its allies. The specific rules of engagement have not been disclosed.
International Condemnation
In a joint statement, the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United Kingdom have expressed their condemnation of the attacks. They have also stressed that international patience is running thin.
Immediate Action Required
The countries are calling for an immediate end to these illegal attacks and the release of unlawfully detained vessels and crews. The responsibility for any consequences resulting from the continued threats to lives, the global economy, and the free flow of commerce in the region’s critical waterways will fall upon the Houthis.
Houthi’s Motive
The Houthis claim that their attacks are aimed at halting the Israeli air-and-ground offensive in the Gaza Strip. However, as the attacks persist, the connection between the targeted ships and Israel has become less clear.
Impact on Critical Waterways
The attacks have targeted commercial shipping vessels passing through the crucial Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which connects Asian and European markets. These assaults have been ongoing since Hamas’ October 7 attack in southern Israel and Israel’s subsequent war against the militant group in Gaza.
Operation Prosperity Guardian: Safeguarding Ship Traffic
The U.S. and its allies have united under Operation Prosperity Guardian in an effort to protect ship traffic in a crucial region. Currently, warships from the United States, France, and the United Kingdom are diligently patrolling the area to ensure safe passage for cargo vessels.
Defense Measures against Houthi Rebels
On Sunday, an unfortunate incident occurred when Houthi rebels launched an attack on a cargo ship in the Red Sea. In response, U.S. helicopters engaged the rebels, opening fire and successfully neutralizing the threat. Regrettably, several rebels lost their lives as a result.
According to U.S. Central Command, the U.S. Navy helicopters acted in self-defense, sinking three of the four rebel boats and eliminating all individuals on board. The remaining boat escaped the area, evading further confrontation. Nevertheless, the Houthis have acknowledged the loss of 10 fighters and issued a warning of potential consequences.
Combating Houthi Aggression
In recent weeks, U.S. ships have faced multiple encounters with Houthi forces. They have successfully intercepted waves of Houthi ballistic missiles and one-way explosive drones, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring regional stability.
A Strategic Approach: Navigating Global Consequences
President Joe Biden recognizes the need to prevent the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas from escalating into a larger regional crisis. However, it is crucial to note that the United States and its allies will respond resolutely to any malevolent action that disrupts global commerce, regardless of its location.
The official emphasized that any future actions taken against the Houthis will be executed employing a “very smart” strategy that avoids deep entanglement with Iran and its proxy groups.
Addressing Provocations: Recent Military Initiatives
In November, U.S. fighter jets targeted a Kataib Hezbollah operations center and command and control node in response to a short-range ballistic missile attack on U.S. forces at Al-Assad Air Base in western Iraq. A previous drone attack by Iranian-backed militias at the same air base in October resulted in minor injuries.
In conclusion, Operation Prosperity Guardian stands as a powerful testament to the united efforts of the U.S. and its allies to safeguard vital ship traffic. While remaining committed to regional stability, the U.S. is prepared to respond firmly and smartly to any threats that hinder global commerce.
