In a high-stakes incident, two U.S. warships, notably the USS Gravely, successfully intercepted two ballistic missiles launched by Houthi rebels towards a merchant ship that had previously fallen victim to a Houthi missile in the Red Sea. The event unfolded as the warships were rendering aid to the afflicted vessel. While the USS Gravely effectively neutralized the incoming missiles, there have been no reports indicating retaliatory measures taken by the U.S. ships.
The Biden administration’s recently announced initiative, Operation Prosperity Guardian, faces complications as key European allies, including Italy and Spain, appear to distance themselves from active participation in the maritime force. Operation Prosperity Guardian, described by the Pentagon as a defensive coalition involving more than 20 nations, aims to ensure the unimpeded flow of commerce worth billions of dollars through a crucial shipping chokepoint in Red Sea waters, strategically positioned off the coast of Yemen.
However, reports reveal that nearly half of the participating countries have not officially acknowledged their contributions or permitted the U.S. to disclose their involvement. Contributions from coalition members vary, ranging from dispatching warships to simply providing a staff officer. This lack of unified acknowledgment poses a challenge to the coalition’s effectiveness in safeguarding the vital maritime route.
The Red Sea serves as the gateway for ships utilizing the Suez Canal, a conduit handling approximately 12% of global trade and playing a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of goods between Asia and Europe. Persistent Houthi attacks have compelled some vessels to reroute around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope, substantially increasing both sailing time and costs.
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The USS Gravely’s active defense against Houthi-launched ballistic missiles adds to the escalating tensions in the region. Notably, this incident marks the 23rd reported illegal attack by the Houthi rebels on international shipping since November 19. Despite the recurrent provocations, the Biden administration has yet to initiate any military action against Houthi bases responsible for the attacks over the past three months.
The situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Red Sea region, where the U.S. seeks to maintain stability and secure critical trade routes while grappling with challenges in coalition-building and responding effectively to Houthi provocations. The ongoing developments will likely shape the trajectory of U.S. policy in the region and influence the success of Operation Prosperity Guardian in the months to come.
