On Thursday, the U.S. initiated fresh strikes against Houthi anti-ship missiles directed at the Red Sea. The growing tensions in the region’s sea routes have disrupted global trade and raised concerns about potential supply chain issues that could lead to increased inflation. The strikes targeted two anti-ship missiles that were being readied by Yemen’s Houthis for launching into the Red Sea. The U.S. military labeled them as “an imminent threat” to shipping and American naval vessels in the area. Since November, attacks by the Iran-allied Houthi militia on ships in and around the Red Sea have hindered trade between Asia and Europe and caused worry among major powers. This has occurred amidst an escalation of the conflict between Israel and Palestinian Hamas militants in Gaza. In the latest incident, the U.S.-operated vessel Genco Picardy was attacked in the Gulf of Aden, resulting in a fire on board, and prompting the Indian Navy to rescue the crew.
On Thursday, President Biden recognized that despite recent military strikes, the aggression exerted by militants has not ceased. Nevertheless, he asserted that retaliatory action from the U.S. will persist. The president confirmed to journalists on board Air Force One “Whilst these offensive actions by Houthis have not ceased, neither shall our response desist.” The Pentagon presented a perspective of its attacks as measures taken in self-defense with an intent to secure marine interests and not being reflective of an act of war against Houthis. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh conveyed emphatically: “Our contention is not with the Houthis.” She continued by highlighting their persistent onslaught using cruise and anti-ship missiles targeted at innocent seafarers. In collaboration with allied partners, she framed U.S.’s actions as defensive operations. In a recent incident underscoring the relentless Houthi efforts to assault maritime vessels, Ambrey – a UK-based maritime security firm – detailed that drones had suspiciously approached a chemical products tanker flying under Marshall Islands’ flag 103 miles southeast of Aden. Houthis admitted responsibility for this attack targeting American ship ‘Chem Ranger’, employing naval missiles leading to direct hits; further intensifying maritime tension. Making their stance clear through an official statement was Yemen’s armed forces: “Retribution towards such assaults perpetrated by America and Britain is inevitable while ensuring all fresh affronts are met with punitive response.” Simultaneously, another disturbing event was reported when four unmanned aerial vehicles were observed nearing and encircling a US-owned tanker approximately 87 miles southeast of Mukalla – off Yemen’s coast; yet again amplifying concerns around maritime safety.
IMPACT ON SUEZ CANAL REVEALS ECONOMIC CHALLENGES
The Egyptian economy is grappling with a troubling economic impact following an unexpected decline in revenue generated by the Suez Canal, as reported by the Chairman of The Suez Canal Authority. Stated figures reveal a precipitous 40% decrease during the initial eleven days of January.
Furthermore, data from The World Trade Organisation illustrates a marked 40% slump in wheat shipments via the Suez Canal throughout the first half of January – equal to roughly half a million metric tons.
This situation stems from complications brought forth by crisis circumstances within Red Sea regions. As businesses resume their operations after weathering through periods affected by COVID-19, there are emerging concerns over escalating pressure on supply chains due to these disruptions.
As vessels start diverting their paths increasingly, this development begins influencing refuelling routines and augments demands for bunker fuel consumed at far-off ports ranging from Mauritius to South Africa and reaching up till Canary Islands.
Large-scale shipping corporations such as Denmark’s Maersk have issued instructions advising hundreds of commercial vessels to avoid entering into Red Sea territories. This step has been triggered based on rising incidents involving attacks alongside temporary halts owing to adverse weather conditions occurring frequently across Europe– factors which pose risks associated with congestion at several container terminals, an update revealed during Maersk’s interaction with its clientele last Thursday.
However, administrators stationed at Rotterdam Port – listed among Europe’s largest ports – anticipate traffic volumes increasing towards end-January as delayed departures commence but forebode no significant logistical hassles arising out of this scenario.
Currently Italian and French ports hold apprehensions about ships bypassing commonly used Mediterranean routes resulting in potential problems down the line.
In recent news, tensions in the Middle East have once again surfaced as the United States launched a series of strikes on Houthi anti-ship missiles, in an effort to put an end to the widespread shipping disruptions in the region. This significant move has caused a stir in global headlines and sparked debates on the potential repercussions.
What exactly is happening?
The Houthi rebels, a Shiite Muslim group in Yemen, have been targeting commercial ships passing through the strategic Bab el-Mandeb strait. This has resulted in several incidents of attacks on vessels and disruptions to international trade routes. In response, the U.S. military carried out multiple airstrikes on the Houthi-controlled territory, targeting their anti-ship missile sites.
Why is this significant?
The U.S. strikes mark the first direct military action against the Houthi rebels in the ongoing conflict. This escalation of tensions could potentially complicate the already volatile situation in the region, as the Houthis are backed by Iran, which has been in conflict with the U.S. for years. Additionally, the Bab el-Mandeb strait is a crucial waterway connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and is vital for global trade, with about 10% of the world’s oil passing through it.
What are the potential benefits?
The primary benefit of these strikes is the hope of curbing the Houthi attacks on commercial ships, which have been disrupting international trade. This could potentially restore stability and ensure the safe passage of ships through this vital trade route. Additionally, the U.S. may also be sending a strong message to Iran and other hostile forces in the region that their aggressive actions will not be tolerated.
The bigger picture
This move by the U.S. is just the latest development in the ongoing conflict in Yemen, which has been ongoing since 2015. The country is currently in a humanitarian crisis, with millions of people facing famine and displacement. The strikes on Houthi anti-ship missiles serve as a reminder of the severity of the situation in Yemen and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.
In conclusion, the recent U.S. strikes on Houthi anti-ship missiles have brought the ongoing conflict in the Middle East back into the spotlight. This significant move has sparked debates and raised concerns about the possible repercussions. As we wait for further developments, it is essential to keep a close eye on the situation and hope for a peaceful resolution.
