Houthi Militants Target International Ships: The Growing Crisis in the Red Sea

Yemeni Houthi militants, supported by Iran and controlling significant portions of Yemen, have employed advanced weaponry, including ballistic missiles and "kamikaze" drones, in their assaults on international ships in the Red Sea. These attacks are carried out in solidarity with the Palestinian militant group Hamas, engaged in conflict with Israel in the Gaza Strip.

The series of attacks commenced on November 19, as Houthi commandos landed on the Galaxy Leader cargo vessel, redirecting it to Hodeidah port in Yemen and seizing the crew, who remain captive. Subsequent attacks targeted various ships in the area, causing disruptions to global trade, with approximately 12% of international trade passing through the Red Sea.

The attacks focus on the southern Red Sea and the adjacent Gulf of Aden, both connected by the Bab al-Mandab strait, a vital passage between the Horn of Africa and the Middle East. Named "Gate of Tears" in Arabic, Bab al-Mandab is strategically crucial for trade routes linking the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean. Approximately 18 miles wide at its narrowest point, the strait presents navigational challenges, resulting in occasional congestion.

The Houthi militants, controlling key regions in Yemen, proclaim that the attacks will persist until Israel ends its "siege" of Gaza. The Israeli government, in response to an October 7 attack by Hamas, has pledged to continue its offensive until hostages are released and the Palestinian militant group is neutralized.

A Reuters analysis reveals an escalation of Houthi drone and missile strikes since the Gaza conflict, continuing amid Western airstrikes against land targets in Yemen since January 11. Although the impact of these airstrikes on Houthi capabilities remains unclear, the militants claim minimal disruption.

While the majority of Houthi attacks target container vessels and dry bulk carriers, a notable incident occurred on January 26 when the Marlin Luanda oil tanker, operated by Trafigura, was struck by a Houthi anti-ship missile in the Gulf of Aden. This incident, causing a prolonged fire, marked a heightened level of destruction.

Houthi weaponry, including Qasef drones, short-range ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles, is supplied by Iran. The Houthis, who emerged in the 1990s opposing Saudi Arabia's influence, have received funds, arms, and training from Iran. The ongoing attacks in the Red Sea suggest sustained capabilities, with the Houthis producing some of their munitions.

Western military forces, including the U.S. and Britain, have conducted airstrikes against Houthi military targets in response to shipping attacks. These attacks have led shipping companies to reroute sailings, contributing to disruptions, potential delivery cost increases, and concerns about global inflation.

In response to the attacks, approximately 373 container ships have rerouted around Africa, reducing the number of vessels transiting the Suez Canal by around 65%. The redirection is expected to incur additional fuel costs, potentially reaching up to $1 million for each round trip between Asia and northern Europe.

The heightened risk of disruption to Middle Eastern supply chains following the Red Sea attacks has also impacted oil prices, causing concerns about potential economic ramifications.