By Tony O’Reilly-
In response to intensified attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels on commercial ships in the Red Sea, both the US and the UK are gearing up for potential strikes against the militants.
The Houthi militia, situated in northern Yemen, has continued its assaults despite multinational warnings.
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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reportedly authorized military action against the Houthis after a cabinet meeting on Thursday evening. This decision, greenlighted following cabinet approval, is expected to be part of a broader US-led military coalition. Downing Street has refrained from commenting on the matter.
The Houthis, prominent members of Tehran’s so-called Axis of Resistance, escalated their activities following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict on October 7.
Despite efforts by President Joe Biden to prevent the regionalization of the Israel-Hamas war, ongoing Houthi attacks prompted a reconsideration of the situation at the White House.
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The Pentagon has developed options for targeted strikes on Houthi positions in Yemen, targeting missile launch sites and weapons depots, according to US officials.
Pentagon press secretary Major General Pat Ryder, however, refrained from speculating on future operations.
As of last week, five US and UK naval vessels were present in the Red Sea, with coordination efforts involving allied warships, including those from France.
The military preparations come in the wake of a series of Houthi attacks on commercial ships navigating the Red Sea and Suez Canal.
The latest incidents include the seizure of an oil tanker off the coast of Oman by Iranian forces and the firing of an anti-ship missile from Yemen into international shipping lanes in the Gulf of Aden by Houthi forces.
This aggressive activity, deemed contrary to international law, has raised concerns about security and stability in the region.
US Central Command reported the 27th Houthi attack on international shipping in the past two months, causing significant disruption along a vital maritime trade route. Grant Shapps, the UK defense secretary, emphasized unity against such actions, stating:
“We are all agreed and in one voice that this cannot continue. We won’t allow it to continue.” The situation remains fluid, with both the US and the UK closely monitoring developments in the region.
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