Three ships were sunk and ten militants were killed when US helicopters repulsed an attack on a Singapore-flagged vessel in the Red Sea on Sunday by Houthi rebels backed by Iran.
Less than two weeks had passed since the US announced the start of Operation Prosperity Guardian, amidst claims that over 20 nations had committed to helping protect ships in the Red Sea waters off Yemen.
Since November, the Houthis, who are based in Yemen, have been attacking nearby vessels as a show of support for Hamas, which has been battling Israeli forces in Gaza for the previous almost three months.
Source: The Hindu
Due to the attacks, large shipping corporations are now compelled to use the more expensive and time-consuming route around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope instead of passing through the Suez Canal, which is a vital canal for the transportation of commodities between Asia and Europe and accounts for around 12% of world trade.
The Houthis will probably respond fiercely to America’s aggressive strategy, even as the West puts more and more pressure on Iran to step in and put an end to the chaos in the Red Sea. Following the attacks on two commercial vessels headed towards India over a week ago, New Delhi has found itself engulfed in the chaos.
Source: Newsx Live
On December 23, near the west coast of India, a drone struck the MV Chem Pluto, flying the flag of Liberia and carrying 21 Indian crew members. The 25-person Indian crew of the MV Sai Baba was targeted in the southern Red Sea.
Even though no one was killed, the two strikes served as a warning to India to strengthen its marine security. It is commendable that the Indian Navy has sent front-line warships and frigates to increase surveillance in the area. A powerful message has been conveyed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s declaration that India will find the perpetrators “even from the depths of the seas.” However, India’s hesitation to join the alliance headed by the US suggests a practical strategy motivated by its maritime interests.
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