In a recent briefing, the Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, announced the establishment of Operation Prosperity Guardian, a task force aimed at addressing the escalating threats to international maritime traffic in the Red Sea, particularly in the international strait of Bab-el-Mandeb. Austin emphasized that the attacks by Houthi rebels on ships, using missiles and drones, are a clear infringement on the freedom of trade in international waters.
The international shipping community has been severely impacted by these interdictions, leading some companies to reroute their shipping away from the Red Sea. While the establishment of Operation Prosperity Guardian was viewed positively, some companies, like Marist, have not yet committed to returning to their previous routes. The need to address the root causes of these attacks, such as identifying the origins of the rebels' weaponry and technical information, is essential for finding a long-term solution.
Experts have pointed out that the Houthi rebels are being supported and influenced by Iran, utilizing their resources to destabilize the region. The Iranian involvement is seen as the primary cause behind the recent attacks on international shipping. While strikes against the rebels in Yemen have been considered, there is a reticence on the part of the United States due to ongoing conflicts in the region, such as the Israeli-Hamas war. The focus is currently on ensuring Israel's security against Hamas, but once that threat is eliminated, addressing Iran's destabilizing activities will be a priority.
The scale of these attacks by the Houthi rebels is staggering. The Defense Department revealed that over a hundred one-way uncrewed UAS ballistic missile attacks have occurred, targeting merchant vessels from 35 different countries. This alarming escalation is a cause for concern as the attacks continue without a meaningful response.
The need to exercise deterrence has been emphasized by the Biden administration to prevent further escalations. However, if the attacks persist, there will inevitably be a need to hold the Houthi rebels accountable. The lack of response to previous attacks, such as the USS Cole incident in 2020, is a reminder that inaction can have severe consequences. Lessons from history suggest that failing to address such threats can embolden malign actors, potentially leading to further security risks.
As the discussions within the administration continue, there are debates on the appropriate measures to be taken. The establishment of Operation Prosperity Guardian is seen as a crucial step, but it may require additional actions, including targeting missile launch sites, drone locations, and the command and control centers of the Houthi rebels. The ultimate goal is to ensure the stability of international waters and safeguard the crucial trade routes vital to nations worldwide.
