To address the pivotal threat posed by Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, the United States of America and the United Kingdom made a pivotal move to address the situation by initiating strategic airstrikes on over a dozen Houthi bases. Both nations unitedly responded to the Houthis’ relentless attacks involving drone and missile strikes on commercial ships in the Red Sea with decisive military operations. The Houthis initiated a dangerous escalation that was claimed to be triggered by the conflict in Gaza.
Background of Houthis rooted in opposition to Saudi Arabia’s religious influence emerged in the 1980s as a Yemeni Militia group. This militia group now controls most of the west of Yemen along the Red Sea coastline. Having strong support for Iran on their back, they are actively supporting Hamas in the Gaza conflict, which aligns them against Israel and its allied nations.
The Red Sea is a crucial shipping channel that has now become a hotspot for Houthi attacks on vessels. These active attacks have heavily disrupted the maritime shipping routes and prompted the shipping companies to use alternative routes around South Africa, which has caused them hefty costs and delays. The United States responded with Operation Prosperity Guardian in December to make peace in the Red Sea. This operation shifted from passive measures to handle the situation with Houthis to a more direct approach.
The US Navy’s engagement with Houthis attempts to board a container ship and other recent events have heightened the tensions. On January 9, 2024, a significant joint effort by US and British warships successfully intercepted 21 drones and missiles launched by the Houthis.
The geopolitical tension originates from the Houthis gaining support against the backdrop of Yemen’s internal struggles, which ultimately led to a catastrophic civil war. Despite international efforts and a ceasefire in April 2022, the situation remains dangerous as Houthis claimed a de facto victory.
In this tense situation, the US and its allied nations have been making efforts for the past couple of months to stabilize the situation passively. Now that they have failed to do so, they have actively reacted to the situation. Still, the whole world is watching them, so they need to navigate this complex situation while considering regional dynamics and border implications to maintain global stability.
