Amidst mounting concerns over escalating tensions in the Middle East, a recent attack by Houthi rebels on a commercial ship in the Red Sea has raised fears of wider conflicts. This incident follows a US drone strike in central Baghdad, which resulted in the death of a high-ranking commander of an Iranian-backed militia. Notably, this marks the first known targeted killing of an Iranian-backed militia leader by the Biden administration.
The drone strike took place in Baghdad, where Moshtaq Talib al-Saadi and an associate were traveling in a vehicle when they were struck and killed. Analysts believe that this strike represents a more aggressive approach by the US to counter ongoing attacks on American forces in the region. However, critics argue that the message sent to Iran needs to be bolder and louder in order to effectively deter their proxy militias.
Simultaneously, attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea have continued unabated, despite warnings from the US. Since November, there have been 25 attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden by Houthi rebels. In the latest incident, an unmanned surface vessel detonated in the Red Sea International Shipping Lane, several miles away from any US Navy ships. Fortunately, there were no reports of damage or casualties among the commercial ships. Nevertheless, the treacherous state of the shipping lanes persists as a concern.
Observers note that the Biden administration's emphasis on avoiding a wider war in the region has until now restrained them from taking significant action against Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and the Houthis in Yemen. However, with the incessant attacks on US interests and the continued provocation from Iran, there are growing calls for a stronger response.
Deterrence, experts argue, begins with clear messaging from the White House and robust foreign policy measures. However, critics claim that the Biden administration has failed to convey a clear message to Iran and other hostile actors. Some highlight the recent removal of the Houthis from the terror list as an example of emboldening these militias. This perceived lack of forceful action may only further embolden Iran and its proxies, who seem to comprehend only the language of strength.
Moreover, recent events in Iran, such as a major explosion that claimed over a hundred lives, have prompted claims of responsibility from ISIS. However, skepticism remains high regarding such claims, as both ISIS and Iran have been known to manipulate events for their own agendas.
As tensions continue to rise in the Middle East, concerns regarding the safety of commercial shipping and the potential for wider conflicts persist. The international community closely watches the Biden administration's response and hopes for a resolution that effectively curtails the activities of Iranian-backed militias and restores stability to the region.
