The United States and United Kingdom have signalled potential military action against Yemen's Houthi rebels following the largest attack yet on Red Sea shipping. Carrier-based jets and warships intercepted 21 drones and missiles launched by the Iran-backed group on Tuesday night.
The UN Security Council passed a resolution on Wednesday demanding an immediate end to the Houthi attacks, endorsing the right of member states to defend their vessels. The Houthis dismissed the resolution as a 'political game', claiming their attacks target Israeli-linked vessels in protest against Israel's war in Gaza.
UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps warned that the Houthis would face 'consequences' if attacks continued, stating 'watch this space' when asked about potential strikes in Yemen. The International Chamber of Shipping reports that 20% of global container ships are now avoiding the Red Sea, taking the longer route around Africa.
The Houthis claimed to have targeted a US ship providing support to Israel, marking the 26th attack on commercial shipping since 19 November. The US military confirmed the launch of Iranian-designed drones and missiles from Houthi-controlled areas, with HMS Diamond shooting down seven drones using its guns and Sea Viper missiles.
Houthi military spokesman Yahya al-Sarea described the operation as an 'initial response' to the sinking of three Houthi speed boats by US Navy helicopters on 31 December. He reiterated that the rebels would continue to prevent Israeli ships or vessels heading to occupied Palestine from navigating the Red Sea and Arabian Sea until the Gaza aggression ends.
