US (Washington Insider Magazine) -The Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen launched missile attacks on three commercial vessels in the southern Red Sea on December 3, according to U.S. Central Command. In light of these escalating threats, the Biden administration is looking to form a maritime task force aimed at ensuring the safety of international shipping in the region. However, instead of starting anew, the U.S. should utilize the existing Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153) to build an international coalition to protect maritime commerce and counter Iranian arms smuggling.
The context surrounding the recent attacks underscores the urgency of this approach. The U.S. Navy destroyer Carney responded to distress signals from the commercial vessels, identified as Unity Explorer, M/V Number 9, and M/V Sophie II, which were struck by missiles from Houthi-controlled territories. During this operation, the Carney was also forced to destroy three drones targeting the ships. U.S. officials have described these attacks as direct threats to international commerce and maritime security.
This recent aggression is not isolated; it follows a pattern of Houthi threats against commercial shipping. On November 16, the International Maritime Security Construct warned of potential attacks in the Bab el-Mandeb strait and the Red Sea, which came to fruition just days later with the hijacking of the Galaxy Leader, a Bahamian-flagged vessel. The ship, manned by a multinational crew, highlights the broader implications of Houthi hostility, which impacts multiple nations.
CENTCOM believes that while the Houthis are the ones executing these attacks, Iran plays a critical role in enabling their operations. U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan pointed out that the weapons used in the December 3 strikes were supplied by Iran, underlining Tehran’s ongoing support for Houthi forces.
To address this growing maritime threat, Sullivan suggested forming a coalition of partner nations to secure safe passage for vessels in the Red Sea. Fortunately, the U.S. already has a framework to build upon with CTF 153, which focuses on maritime security in the region. Established in 2022, CTF 153 comprises 15 member nations, including Egypt, which previously led the task force. By enlisting the participation of countries like Saudi Arabia, Israel, and members of the G-7, the U.S. can enhance regional security and safeguard critical trade routes.
As tensions rise, a collaborative international effort is essential to deter further Houthi aggression and uphold the freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors. Leveraging existing resources will not only streamline operations but also bolster efforts to maintain global trade security against the backdrop of escalating threats in the region.