U.S. and UK Forces Thwart 26th Houthi Attack on Shipping Lanes in the Red Sea

In a joint effort, the United States and United Kingdom military successfully intercepted and shot down 18 drones, two anti-ship cruise missiles, and one anti-ship ballistic missile launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels over the southern Red Sea.

This marks the 26th attack on international shipping lanes by the Houthi group since November 19. No injuries or damage were reported in the operation.

The Red Sea, a crucial route to the Suez Canal facilitating about 12% of global trade, has become a focal point for disruptions. Houthi attacks have increased risks for vessels approaching the Suez Canal, leading to delays, increased costs, and rerouting decisions by major shipping companies.

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) described the attack as a complex assault involving Iranian-designed one-way attack UAVs, anti-ship cruise missiles, and an anti-ship ballistic missile. The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have been targeting commercial vessels in protest of Israel's military actions in Gaza.

The operation involved fighter jets from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and four destroyers, including one from the UK. This comes as part of ongoing efforts by the international maritime coalition formed by the U.S. last month to counter Houthi attacks.

Despite the repeated attacks, the shipping lanes have experienced no injuries or damage, but concerns persist over the potential disruption of global supply chains. Some shipping lines have opted for longer routes, circumventing the Red Sea altogether.

The Houthi rebels have vowed to continue their attacks until Israel halts its conflict in Gaza. The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on a resolution condemning the attacks and demanding the release of the Galaxy Leader, a vessel hijacked by the Houthis during their initial assault on shipping.

As tensions escalate in the region, the U.S. has deployed significant military assets to deter further attacks. The international community is closely watching the situation, mindful of the potential impact on global trade, especially given the strategic importance of the Suez Canal.

The recent successful interception by U.S. and UK forces underscores the ongoing challenges in the region and raises concerns about the potential for a broader conflict.

Al Masirah, Yemen's Houthi news outlet, previously reported that ships traversing the Red Sea lack protective cover, despite the presence of U.S. warships equipped with advanced defense systems. Despite being the poorest Arab nation, Yemen's Houthi rebels possess a substantial stockpile of missiles and drones. Situated over 1,000 km away, the Houthis are altering missile paths and challenging the coalition's detection systems as they launch missiles towards Israel.

Tel Aviv finds itself unable to confront this distant threat, fearing the potential for an international crisis if drawn into a war with Yemen. Additionally, the geographical distance poses a risk of disrupting maritime routes, as highlighted in the report.

Earlier in the crisis, the U.S. exhibited reluctance to escalate tensions, refraining from firing back towards Yemen despite missiles being launched by the Houthis towards the Red Sea. U.S., British, and French warships in the Red Sea possess the capability to intercept Houthi missiles and drones. However, the increasing cost and the uncertainty of hitting every single one become significant challenges, particularly in the face of a potential "swarm" attack by the Houthis – a tactic involving the simultaneous launch of multiple drones and missiles, akin to Russia's actions in Ukraine.