Vantage | Can a 10-nation force prevent Houthi attacks in Red Sea?

In recent weeks, the Red Sea has become a hotbed of escalating tensions, marked by drone attacks, cruise missiles and hijackings. The Houthi rebels of Yemen have emerged as the primary instigators, terrorising the vital waterway. In response to this growing threat, a multinational coalition has been formed to safeguard ships navigating the Red Sea.

Coalition’s mission Comprising 10 nations including the United States, Britain, Spain, Seychelles, Norway, the Netherlands, Italy, France, Canada and Bahrain, the coalition aims to defend commercial vessels in the Red Sea. Operation Prosperity Guardian has been launched under the leadership of Task Force 153, focussing on joint patrols, increased air support and providing escorts for cargo ships. The announcement of the coalition came from US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, currently in West Asia for talks. “All countries have the right to move freely and lawfully in international waters, but that foundational global right is under new threat today from the totally unacceptable attacks on merchant vessels by the Houthis in Yemen. So, this morning we’ve launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, under the umbrella of combined maritime forces and under the leadership of Taskforce 153,” said US Defence Secretary Austin. Challenges and concerns The composition of the coalition raises questions, particularly the absence of more West Asian nations. Reports suggest concerns from Gulf states about the optics of supporting a mission that could be perceived as conflicting with their stance on the Palestinian cause. While some Arab states are involved behind the scenes, their direct participation remains uncertain. The Houthi rebels have intensified their attacks, launching drones and missiles. Over the weekend, 15 Houthi drones were shot down by US and UK warships. Subsequently, on Monday, commercial vessels including the Swan Atlantic were targeted leading to distress calls and US warship assistance. Major shipping companies such as MSC, Maersk, Hapag Lloyd, Euronav, Evergreen, Frontline and HMM, have ceased operations in the Red Sea diverting their routes. This shift has significant economic repercussions affecting global trade routes and causing increased shipping costs and delays. The disruption in the Red Sea affects countries like India, making exports more expensive and impacting oil bills. Companies like BP have halted the use of this route, contributing to a nearly 3 per cent increase in crude oil prices. The Red Sea accounts for 12 per cent of all maritime trade and 30 per cent of containers, representing close to $1 trillion. As the coalition seeks to counter Houthi threats, the rebels remain defiant. The Houthi warning of capabilities to sink fleets and warships raises doubts about the effectiveness of the coalition’s efforts. The rebels’ hit-and-run tactics and elusive drone attacks pose challenges to sustained security measures. The situation in the Red Sea demands international attention and collaborative efforts to secure vital trade routes. The formation of the multinational coalition is a significant step, but the complexities of the geopolitical landscape and the persistent threats from the Houthi rebels underscore the need for a comprehensive and sustainable strategy to ensure the uninterrupted flow of global maritime trade. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.