Title: UK and US Naval Forces Repel Houthi Rebel Attack on Red Sea Shipping
In a successful joint operation, naval forces from the United Kingdom and the United States have managed to repel a large-scale attack by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on Red Sea shipping. The attack, which involved the launch of drones and missiles by the Iran-backed group, was swiftly neutralized by carrier-based jets and warships.
Grant Shapps, the UK’s Defence Secretary, expressed certainty that Iran was heavily involved in orchestrating these attacks. The Houthi rebels claimed they targeted a US ship in retaliation for the killing of rebels who had attempted to attack a container ship in the previous month.
A total of 21 drones and missiles were shot down during the operation. The Houthis have conducted a staggering 26 similar attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea since November 19. The US military reported that the attack included one-way attack drones, anti-ship cruise missiles, and anti-ship ballistic missiles, all launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen towards international shipping lanes in the southern Red Sea.
The wide-scale defence operation involved the USS Dwight D Eisenhower and four destroyers, including the HMS Diamond. HMS Diamond successfully employed its Sea Viper missiles and guns to shoot down seven Houthi drones, resulting in no injuries or damage.
The Houthi military spokesman confirmed the operation, emphasizing that it was in response to a prior assault by US forces. They have further stated their intention to continue targeting Israeli ships until the Israeli aggression in Gaza comes to an end.
The situation in the Red Sea is now deemed unsustainable as it poses economic and military implications. The cost discrepancy between Houthi drones and Western missile defence systems has raised significant concerns. It is believed that the Houthis receive intelligence and weaponry support from Iran.
Former Royal Navy commanders have shed light on the immense pressure faced by crews during rapid missile attacks. In response, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has issued a warning, stating that the UK and its allies will not hesitate to take action to protect innocent lives and the global economy if these attacks persist.
As a result of the alarming Red Sea attacks, the UK, the US, and several other nations have launched “Operation Prosperity Guardian” to safeguard Red Sea shipping. Such attacks pose a direct threat to global trade and could potentially lead to fuel price increases and disruptions in the supply chain.
The International Chamber of Shipping has reported that 20% of container ships are now avoiding the Red Sea and opting for longer routes instead. It is crucial to note that the Houthi rebels initially emerged as a movement advocating for Yemen’s Zaidi Shia Muslim minority. Their control over the capital, Sanaa, in 2014 triggered a Saudi-led intervention in support of the internationally recognized Yemeni government.
The ongoing war in Yemen has resulted in alarming casualties and humanitarian needs, making it imperative to address and curb the Houthi rebel attacks on Red Sea shipping.
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