Houthi Missiles and Drones Threaten Red Sea Shipping, Endangering Global Trade and the US Navy

Houthi Missiles and Drones Threaten Red Sea Shipping, Endangering Global Trade and the US Navy

Recent Attack:

On December 26, 2023, three commercial ships in the Red Sea were struck by ballistic missiles fired from Houthi-controlled Yemen. The US Navy responded by shooting down three drones launched by the Iranian-backed rebel group. This latest attack highlights the ongoing threat posed by the Houthis to this vital shipping lane, which carries about 10% of the world’s trade and 5% of its oil.

The Houthi Threat:

The Houthis are a Shia Muslim minority group in Yemen that has been fighting the internationally recognized government since 2014, with support from Iran. They control large parts of the country, including the capital Sanaa and the port of Hodeidah. They have also launched hundreds of drone and missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, which leads a coalition of Arab states supporting the Yemeni government.

Strategic Importance of the Red Sea:

The Red Sea is a critical waterway connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean. It is used by ships from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, carrying essential goods like oil, gas, food, and weapons. The Bab al-Mandab Strait, a narrow chokepoint at the southern entrance to the Red Sea, is only 18 miles wide at its narrowest point. This strategic location makes the Red Sea crucial for the US Navy, which uses it to access the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf, where it maintains a strong presence to counter Iran and protect its allies.

Houthi Justifications and Weapons:

The Houthis claim their attacks on ships are in response to the Saudi-led blockade of Yemen, which has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis. They also claim to target vessels linked to Israel, in solidarity with the Palestinians. However, these claims lack evidence, and the Houthis have shown disregard for the civilian and commercial nature of the ships they attack.

The Houthis use sophisticated weapons, including anti-ship cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and explosive-laden drones, believed to be supplied by Iran.

US Navy Response and Challenges:

The US Navy monitors and responds to Houthi attacks to ensure freedom of navigation and maritime security. It has deployed warships like the USS Eisenhower aircraft carrier and destroyers to the Red Sea, intercepting and shooting down Houthi missiles and drones. The Navy also launched a global patrol mission in December 2023 to protect ships from the Houthi threat and collaborates with allies like the UK, France, and Japan.

However, the Navy faces challenges:

• Balancing resources with other regional threats.
• Operating in a complex and congested environment.
• Respecting international law and the sovereignty of other countries.

Implications and Consequences:

The Houthi attacks have significant implications:

• Growing Iranian influence and aggression in the region.
• Increased sophistication and capability of the Houthis.
• Vulnerability of the Red Sea as a strategic waterway and trade route.
• Potential for economic and environmental damage.
• Escalation of conflict and instability in the region.
• Need for the US Navy to maintain its presence and cooperate with allies.

Why America Should Care:

The Houthi attacks matter to America because they:

• Affect national security and economic prosperity.
• Reflect values like freedom, democracy, and human rights.
• Represent an opportunity to promote peace and stability in the region.

Conclusion:

The Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea pose a serious threat to global trade and the US Navy. The US Navy is responding to these attacks but faces challenges. America should care about this issue due to its potential impact on national security, economic prosperity, and global values.