Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Yemen's Houthi rebels conducted a significant assault on ships in the Red Sea on Tuesday, employing a barrage of drones and missiles. Despite the attack, no damage was reported, according to the United States on Wednesday.
Targets and Provocations
The ambush occurred off the port cities of Hodeida and Mokha in Yemen, as confirmed by Ambrey, a private intelligence firm. Reports indicate that ships operating near Hodeida witnessed the presence of missiles and drones, resulting in U.S-allied warships urging vessels to proceed at maximum speed. In the vicinity of Mokha, ships observed missile launches, a drone in flight, and small accompanying vessels.
The Complexity of the Attack
According to the U.S. military's Central Command, the Houthi rebels orchestrated a "complex attack" using bomb-carrying drones, cruise missiles, and an anti-ship ballistic missile. Successfully defending against the assault, F-18s from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, along with other American and British warships, managed to intercept and down 18 drones, two cruise missiles, and the anti-ship missile.
Ongoing Threat to Commercial Shipping
Central Command revealed that this marks the 26th attack by the Houthis on commercial shipping lanes in the Red Sea since November 19. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or damage. However, vessels are warned to exercise caution and promptly report any suspicious activity during transit.
Houthi's Unacknowledged Offensive
Although the Houthi rebels, a Shiite group that has controlled Yemen's capital since 2014, did not explicitly claim responsibility for these attacks, an anonymous Houthi military official reportedly stated that their forces deliberately targeted a ship linked to Israel in the Red Sea, as reported by Al Jazeera.
In light of these events, it is evident that the threat posed by Houthi attacks in the Red Sea continues to persist.
Attacks on Ships in the Red Sea: A Threat to Global Trade
The ongoing attacks by the Houthi rebels have targeted ships in the crucial Red Sea, disrupting the flow of goods between the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. This strategic waterway connects these regions through the Suez Canal and the narrow Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The rebel assaults, aimed at countering Israel's offensive on Gaza during the Hamas conflict, have threatened the stability of this major trade route.
The importance of the Red Sea cannot be overstated. Being only 18 miles wide at its narrowest point, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait allows for limited traffic flow, with just two channels handling inbound and outbound shipments. Approximately 10% of all globally traded oil passes through this chokepoint, making it a critical passage for energy supplies. In addition, an estimated $1 trillion worth of goods is transported through the Red Sea annually, underscoring its significance for international trade.
To tackle this escalating threat, a U.S-led coalition has been patrolling the Red Sea, attempting to prevent further attacks. One incident involved American troops sinking Houthi vessels and eliminating 10 rebel fighters. Despite these measures, there has been no large-scale retaliatory response from the U.S thus far, despite warnings issued.
Despite the attacks at sea, a fragile cease-fire between the Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen's exiled government has been holding for several months. This temporary truce has provided a respite from the long-standing conflict in Yemen. However, there is growing concern that any escalation in hostilities within the Red Sea or possible retaliation from Western forces could ignite tensions once again in Yemen, which remains the poorest nation in the Arab world.
The situation in the Red Sea poses a significant threat to global trade and stability. Efforts must be made to ensure the safety of ships navigating these waters and prevent any further disruptions that could have far-reaching consequences. Thus, it is crucial for all relevant parties to find a resolution and safeguard the vital shipping routes in this region.
