Houthi Attacks in the Red Sea: Understanding the Global Impact

In recent times, the Yemeni Iran-backed Houthi rebels have intensified their attacks on ships in the Red Sea, attributing their actions to revenge against Israel for its military operations in Gaza. These attacks have prompted major shipping and oil companies to suspend transit through this crucial maritime trade route, raising concerns about potential shocks to the global economy.

Who are the Houthis?

The Houthi movement, also known as Ansarallah (Supporters of God), emerged in the 1990s under the leadership of Hussein al-Houthi. It originated as a religious revival movement representing Zaidism, a subsect of Shia Islam that had been marginalized in Yemen. The movement aimed to resist radical Sunnism, particularly Wahhabi ideas from Saudi Arabia.

The Rise to Power

The movement gained momentum in the early 2000s, leading to mass demonstrations and a confrontation with then-President Ali Abdullah Saleh. Although al-Houthi was killed in 2004, the movement persisted, eventually taking control of parts of Yemen's capital, Sanaa, in 2014. This triggered a conflict with Saudi Arabia, which launched a war in 2015 at the request of Yemen's exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.

Current Situation and Allies

After a ceasefire in 2022, the Houthis consolidated control over northern Yemen. Backed by Iran, they form part of Iran's "Axis of Resistance," an anti-Israel and anti-Western alliance. The group has received support in the form of weapons and technology, making it a significant player in the region.

Military Capabilities and Technology

The Houthis have demonstrated improvements in the range and accuracy of their domestically produced missiles. While they may not pose a direct threat to Israel, their technology can cause disruptions in the Red Sea. The use of drones and anti-ship missiles against commercial vessels has led to significant concerns globally.

Why Attack Ships in the Red Sea?

The attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea have far-reaching implications. This narrow sea passage is vital for global trade, with 12% of global trade flowing through it. The attacks, almost daily since December 9, have led major shipping firms and oil companies to pause operations, causing oil and gas prices to surge. There are fears that these attacks could have severe economic consequences globally.

Houthi Objectives and Global Response

The stated reason for the attacks is a demand for Israel to allow the entry of food and medicine into Gaza. By targeting the Red Sea, the Houthis aim to inflict economic pain on Israel's allies. The international community has responded, with the U.S. forming a multinational naval task force to address the threat. Israel has warned of potential action if the global community does not intervene.

In conclusion, the Houthi rebels' maritime campaign in the Red Sea is a complex geopolitical issue with profound economic implications. As the international community grapples with how to respond, the situation remains fluid, and the global impact of these attacks continues to unfold.