Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have increased their attacks on commercial ships in the Gulf of Aden, launching over 175 attacks since November 19, 2023. The attacks intensified after joint U.S.-U.K. strikes targeted Houthi locations in Yemen, including a weapons storage facility, missile launchers, and a command-and-control center. F-18 fighter jets from the USS Eisenhower aircraft carrier were used in the strikes. Over the weekend, the Houthis launched two anti-ship ballistic missiles from Yemen into the Gulf of Aden, hitting two commercial ships.
The first missile struck the Liberian-flagged, Swiss-owned M/V Tavvishi, a container ship that sustained damage but continued sailing towards its destination. The second missile was destroyed by a coalition ship before it could strike its target. In a separate attack, one anti-ship ballistic missile and one anti-ship cruise missile were launched into the Gulf of Aden, striking the Antigua and Barbados-flagged, German-owned M/V Norderney cargo ship, which also sustained damage but continued its journey. There were no reported injuries in either attack.
The attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea by the Houthi rebels have been ongoing since late October, with the militant group stating that the attacks are in retaliation for Israel’s actions against Hamas in Gaza. Since November, the Houthis have launched over 50 attacks on ships, resulting in three sailor deaths, the seizure of one vessel, and the sinking of another, according to the U.S. Maritime Administration. In response to the attacks, the Pentagon launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, an international mission aimed at countering the Houthi threat.
The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels’ increased targeting of commercial ships in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea has raised concerns about the safety of maritime trade routes in the region. The attacks have resulted in damage to several ships and caused casualties among sailors. The escalation of violence comes after joint U.S.-U.K. strikes on Houthi locations in Yemen, indicating a continued conflict between the rebels and international forces. The launch of Operation Prosperity Guardian by the Pentagon underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for a coordinated response to protect shipping lanes and ensure maritime security in the area.
The attacks by Houthi rebels have drawn international attention and condemnation, with efforts being made to address the root causes of the conflict and prevent further escalation. The targeting of commercial ships in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea poses a threat to regional stability and highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East. The involvement of Iranian-backed groups in Yemen further complicates the situation and raises questions about the role of external actors in fueling conflicts in the region. Moving forward, coordinated international efforts will be crucial in addressing the Houthi threat and maintaining peace and security in the region.
