Houthi Militia Targets Shipping in Red Sea Amid Rising Tensions

Web DeskNovember 18, 2024 02:52 PMworld
  • Houthi militia intensifies attacks on shipping routes.
  • Missile incidents reported near Yemen's Aden.
  • Threats against vessels linked to Israel escalate.
Houthi Militia Targets Shipping in Red Sea Amid Rising TensionsImage Credits: arabnewspk
The Houthi militia escalates missile attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea, threatening global trade amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The ongoing conflict in Yemen has escalated tensions in the Red Sea, particularly with the recent actions of the Houthi militia. On Monday, a vessel sailing 60 nautical miles southeast of Yemen's Aden reported a missile landing in the sea nearby, as confirmed by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). Fortunately, the ship and its crew were unharmed. This incident follows another missile splash reported by the same vessel just a day earlier, while it was navigating 25 nautical miles west of Yemen's Mokha.

The Houthis have been intensifying their attacks on shipping routes, which are crucial for global trade, especially amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The Red Sea is a vital waterway, facilitating the passage of approximately $1 trillion worth of goods annually. The militia has threatened to target vessels associated with German shipping firms, particularly those near the Red Sea or utilizing Israeli ports. According to the German shipowners’ association, VDR, these threats are seen as attempts at intimidation.

In recent months, the Houthis have sent emails warning the German shipping industry that any vessels linked to Israel would be considered potential targets. One such email, which was reviewed by AFP, ominously stated that there would be a "naval blockade on the Israeli enemy," indicating that all vessels associated with Israel would face consequences and be barred from crossing areas controlled by the Yemeni Armed Forces.

The VDR has confirmed the authenticity of these threats, which have been validated by the German navy and the International Chamber of Shipping. Since the onset of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, the Houthis have launched attacks on over 90 merchant vessels using missiles and drones. Their campaign has resulted in the seizure of one ship, the sinking of two others, and the tragic loss of four sailors. While some missiles and drones have been intercepted by a US-led coalition, others have failed to reach their intended targets, which have included Western military vessels.

The Houthis assert that their attacks are aimed at ships linked to Israel, the US, or the UK, as part of their strategy to pressure for an end to Israel's military actions against Hamas. However, many of the vessels targeted have little to no connection to the ongoing conflict, with some even bound for Iran. Additionally, the militia has successfully shot down several American MQ-9 Reaper drones, further demonstrating their capabilities.

In a recent incident on November 11, two US Navy warships were targeted by multiple drones and missiles while traversing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, although these attacks ultimately failed. The situation in the Red Sea remains precarious, with the potential for further escalation as the Houthis continue their aggressive stance against maritime traffic.

As the conflict in Yemen continues to unfold, the implications for international shipping and global trade are significant. The threats posed by the Houthis not only endanger vessels in the region but also highlight the broader geopolitical tensions that can disrupt vital trade routes. It is crucial for the international community to monitor these developments closely and seek diplomatic solutions to ensure the safety of maritime operations in this critical area.

Related Post