A British cargo ship that was recently hit by Houthi rebels has sunk, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict in the region. This incident is the first of its kind in a war that has caused shipping in the area to divert routes, leading to a surge in insurance and related costs.
Former CENTCOM commander, General Joseph Attell, highlighted the nature of the response to the Houthi attacks. He emphasized that the defensive actions taken so far have been primarily focused on protecting shipping and American resources passing through the region. These actions have targeted the Houthis' ability to launch attacks by hitting launch sites, radars, command and control locations, and supply depots.
However, the attacks have not extended to disrupting the Houthis' supply chains, and the involvement of other regional players, such as Egypt, has been limited. The lack of broader regional support has hindered efforts to deter the Houthi attacks and restore confidence in the shipping industry.
The Houthis, characterized as employing terrorist-like tactics in international waters, have obstructed the delivery of humanitarian aid to Sudan and their own country. Their imprecise targeting and ability to quickly replace supplies make it challenging to effectively deter their actions.
While the Houthis have a relationship with Iran, they maintain a level of independence in their decision-making. Their activities in the Red Sea are popular among their base in western Yemen, portraying them as contributors to the resistance against external pressures.
The continued capability of the Houthis to carry out attacks remains a concern, as they are perceived as still having the means to strike back effectively. The complex dynamics between the Houthis, Iran, and regional actors add layers of complexity to the conflict in the region.
