The U.S. Military Strikes Back in Yemen
In a recent turn of events, the U.S. military has conducted a series of self-defense strikes in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. These strikes, which took place on Saturday, targeted various threats including an unmanned underwater vessel, three mobile anti-ship cruise missiles, and an unmanned surface vessel. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that these actions were necessary to protect U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region, ensuring freedom of navigation and the safety of international waters.
The Houthis, a rebel group in Yemen, have been launching a barrage of drones and anti-ship ballistic missiles in recent months. Their attacks have targeted dozens of ships, disrupting the crucial international shipping corridor in the Red Sea. Initially, the Houthis claimed that they would only shoot at ships linked to Israel. However, their actions have escalated, prompting a response from the U.S. and its allies.
On January 11, the U.S. and British militaries, along with other allies, launched the first strikes in response to Houthi attacks. In the aftermath of these attacks, the U.S. government re-designated the Houthi movement as a terrorist organization. This move came as the group intensified its assaults in the Red Sea.
The Red Sea serves as a primary route by sea between Europe and Asia, regularly used by commercial ships. However, due to safety concerns, many companies have decided to bypass the area. Shipping giants such as CMA CGA, Equinor, Evergreen, Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk, Orient Overseas, and ZIM have all announced plans to avoid the Red Sea while the violence persists. Energy company BP has also suspended gas and oil shipments in the area, further exacerbating the situation.
The impact of these attacks and shipping disruptions is significant. Ikea has warned of possible shortages as shipping companies bypass the Red Sea. U.S. Ambassador Robert Wood addressed this issue at a UN Security Council Briefing on Yemen, highlighting the increased costs for goods and supplies due to the Houthis’ attempts to chokehold global shipping through the Red Sea. Rerouting a ship around Africa adds approximately 10 days and $1 million in fuel costs for each one-way voyage between Asia and Europe.
The U.S. military’s self-defense strikes in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen are a clear message that they will not tolerate threats to their Navy ships and merchant vessels. By taking action against the unmanned underwater vessel and other imminent threats, the U.S. aims to protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure.
The situation in Yemen remains complex, with ongoing conflict and regional tensions. The U.S. and its allies are closely monitoring the actions of the Houthis and will continue to respond to any threats that arise. As the Red Sea shipping corridor faces disruptions, companies and consumers around the world may experience increased costs and potential shortages. The resolution of this conflict is crucial for the stability of global trade and the well-being of people worldwide.