- Houthi drone hits Red Sea
- Disrupts global shipping
- US, UK warn consequences
Twelve countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, had warned Houthi separatists of “consequences” if they continued to target commercial vessels the day before the attack. The organization asserts that its campaign is a demonstration in opposition to the military actions undertaken by Israel in Gaza.
An explosive-laden drone vessel has exploded in the Red Sea. The US Navy asserts that Houthi militants owned the vessel, and it has reported no damage or casualties since the explosion.
Since November, the Houthis, an Iranian-aligned group that controls a significant portion of Yemen, have launched a series of assaults against commercial vessels in the Red Sea.
As a form of protest against Israel’s military operations in Gaza, the group claims the assaults are on. Consequently, global shipping has been significantly disrupted, as numerous companies have opted to cancel voyages via the Red Sea and circumnavigate around Africa for extended periods.
The United States naval forces commander in the Middle East, Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, stated that the most recent detonation occurred in congested shipping lanes. “It came within a couple of miles of ships operating in the area – merchant ships and US Navy ships – and we all watched as it exploded,” he told media.
Twelve nations, including the United States and the United Kingdom, had warned the Houthis of “consequences” if they continued to target commercial vessels the day before the attack.
Vice Admiral Cooper has issued the following warning: “Their irresponsible conduct shows no indication of abating.”
The administration of US President Joe Biden has been hesitant to respond militarily to mounting pressure in the region for fear of further escalating tensions.
Despite the Houthis’ assertions that their assaults were targeted exclusively at vessels with ties to or traveling to Israel, a significant number of the ships involved had no affiliation with the country.
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The disturbance may worsen the prevailing cost of living crisis in the United Kingdom, impacting consumer goods and energy expenses, raising concerns.
By the Red Sea, vessels traverse Egypt’s Suez Canal, a significant byway that circumnavigates Africa and connects the Mediterranean and Asia; they also convey food and drink, electrical energy, and natural gas.
Currently, vessels must circumnavigate the Horn of Africa by circling northward from the Cape of Good Hope and southward, adding 10,500 nautical miles and ten days to their itineraries.
