Iran-Backed Houthi Forces Attack 15 Commercial Ships in Red Sea
The U.S. Navy has reported that Iran-backed Houthi armed forces in Yemen have attacked two more ships, bringing the total number of commercial ships attacked near the Red Sea to 15. The attacks continue to escalate tensions in the region, part of a broader confrontation between Iran’s allies and the United States and Israel.
The assaults on shipping vessels have been on the rise and are part of the ongoing regional conflict. According to a declassified document from the U.S. Department of Defense, the number of Houthi armed vessel attacks increased to eight in the first half of December, compared to just three in the second half of November.
The attacks have been prompted by Israel’s military operation in Gaza in response to an October 7 attack by Hamas. The Houthis have targeted vessels they believe are linked to Israel, while other pro-Tehran militias have also joined the conflict.
The U.S. and its allies have deployed naval vessels in the region in an effort to deter further attacks, which has helped to ease concerns among some shippers. However, there are still companies, such as BP PLC and Norway’s Equinor, that have not resumed shipping through the Red Sea.
The Houthis have warned of more attacks in response to the arrival of U.S. warships in the area. Meanwhile, the Biden administration is debating how to respond to the attacks, with some advocating for a swift response while others caution against provoking further conflict.
The attacks on ships passing through the Red Sea have had a significant impact on global maritime trade. Shippers have been forced to detour around southern Africa, delaying cargo deliveries from Asia to Europe.
Iran’s potential direct intervention in the shipping situation is a growing concern for the United States. Washington has accused Iran of providing the Houthis with real-time intelligence and weapons to carry out attacks on ships in the Red Sea.
The situation remains volatile, with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi threatening retaliation against Israel following an attack on one of Iran’s top commanders in Syria. Tensions within the Iranian regime and its impact on the broader conflict in the region continue to be a cause for concern.
The ongoing attacks in the Red Sea and geopolitical developments in the region will require continued monitoring and engagement from the international community to prevent further escalation and maintain maritime security.