In response to attacks on Red Sea shipping, the United States and Britain have launched military strikes against Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen. These strikes represent a significant escalation in response to the Houthis’ aggression, particularly their actions against commercial shipping, which are seen as a threat to international navigation and commerce.
President Joe Biden emphasized that the targeted strikes were necessary to protect US personnel and maintain the freedom of navigation in critical commercial routes. The US military employed precision munitions to target specific Houthi capabilities and locations. The strikes, including the use of Tomahawk missiles launched from warships, fighter jets, and a submarine, aimed to significantly degrade the Houthis’ military capabilities. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also supported the action, condemning the Houthis’ destabilizing activities and asserting the importance of freedom of navigation.
This photo released by the Houthi Media Center shows a Houthi forces helicopter approaching the cargo ship Galaxy Leader on November 19, 2023 in the Red Sea. (Houthi Media Center via AP)
The Houthis, in turn, denounced the strikes as barbaric and vowed to continue their actions against Israel-bound ships. They also warned of retaliation against the US and UK for their military aggression. The Houthi spokesperson, Yahya Saree, reported that the strikes resulted in casualties, including five deaths and several injuries.
These strikes mark the first major US military action in Yemen since 2016 and the first time the US has attacked the Houthis on such a scale. This military intervention follows a series of aggressive actions by the Houthis, including attacks using drones and missiles against commercial vessels in the Red Sea.
An RAF Typhoon aircraft takes off to join the U.S.-led coalition from RAF Akrotiri to conduct air strikes against military targets in Yemen, aimed at the Iran-backed Houthi militia that has been targeting international shipping in the Red Sea, in Cyprus, in this handout picture released on January 12, 2024. Sgt Lee Goddard/UK MOD/Handout via REUTERS
The situation has raised concerns about further escalation and the potential impact on the global economy. The Houthi attacks on shipping lanes have already forced commercial vessels to take longer, costlier routes, heightening fears of inflation and supply chain disruptions. Tesla even announced the temporary shutdown of its factory in Germany due to delays in parts supplies caused by the unrest in the Red Sea.
The international community, including countries like Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, supported the strikes. However, Iran, which backs the Houthis, condemned the attacks, and Russia called for a United Nations Security Council meeting to discuss the military actions.
