Houthis Escalate Attacks on Ships Amid Gaza Conflict
The Houthi armed group has intensified its campaign against maritime vessels in the Bab el Mandeb Strait, a crucial passageway connecting the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean. This escalation is framed as a show of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Military spokesman Ameen Hayyan announced this new phase of their operations, which targets any ships linked to Israeli interests, regardless of their nationality.
Targeting Maritime Traffic
In a recent televised address, Ameen Hayyan outlined the Houthis’ strategy, stating that they will target all vessels associated with companies operating in Israeli ports. He emphasized that this campaign extends to any location within the reach of their armed forces. Hayyan also called on nations worldwide to cut ties with Israel and advocate for the lifting of the blockade on Gaza.
Since November 2023, the Houthis have reportedly attacked over 100 vessels in the Red Sea, resulting in the sinking of four ships and the seizure of one. At least eight sailors have lost their lives in these confrontations. Notably, the group recently sank two Greek-owned bulk carriers, the Eternity C and Magic Seas, both flying the Liberian flag. These aggressive actions have raised alarms about the safety of maritime navigation in the region.
Escalating Military Responses
In addition to maritime attacks, the Houthis have launched ballistic missiles towards Israeli-occupied territories, most of which have been intercepted by Israeli defense systems. In retaliation, Israel has ramped up airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen, including significant strikes on port infrastructure. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that Yemen would face severe consequences for these missile attacks, equating the Houthis’ actions to those of Iran.
This escalation follows a ceasefire agreement mediated by Oman in May, which had temporarily halted hostilities initiated by the U.S. under former President Donald Trump. The current situation marks a significant shift in the dynamics of the conflict, with potential implications for regional stability and international maritime security.
