The Yemeni Houthi rebels have recently claimed that their naval capabilities now extend to the Mediterranean Sea, which until now had been confined to the Red Sea and surrounding areas. Abdul Malik al-Houthi, the group’s leader, stated that this expansion is part of a larger effort to disrupt maritime routes to Israeli ports.
A senior defense official has underscored the enhanced capabilities of the Yemeni Armed Forces, indicating that they possess weaponry that could indeed reach the Mediterranean. This arsenal includes anti-ship ballistic missiles and drones, which the Houthis have been using in greater numbers for maritime attacks.
Despite the claim of extending their operational reach, no confirmed incidents have been reported in the Mediterranean this past week. However, the Pentagon has expressed concern regarding the Houthis’ new objectives and capabilities. The Houthi leader claimed that this expansion to the Mediterranean represents the “fourth phase” of their naval operations, which has included targeting vessels that transport goods to Israel. The group alleges to have conducted 40 operations against Israeli-linked ships and another 100 against vessels in the Red Sea.
US defense authorities have also highlighted that since November, the Houthis have launched over 90 attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. These strikes are said to be in retaliation for Israeli actions in Gaza. In response to the threat, the United States has initiated Operation Prosperity Guardian to protect commercial vessels in these strategic waterways.
Further complicating the situation is that US and UK efforts to counteract the Houthi missile and drone stockpiles through air and naval strikes have seen limited success. To bolster their efforts, Pentagon officials are collaborating with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to improve multilateral data sharing and counterproliferation measures, focusing on interdiction efforts against Iranian missile components allegedly smuggled to the Houthis.
The consequences of the Houthis’ maritime attacks are far-reaching, leading to significant disruptions in maritime commerce, including rerouting international shipping around Africa and increased insurance rates. At least 20 commercial vessels have been targeted since November, resulting in the deaths of three crew members and substantial economic and environmental damage.
Relevant articles:
– Yemen targets three Israeli-linked ships, extends reach to Mediterranean , Press TV, 05/25/2024
– Yemen’s Houthi group claims attack on “Israeli vessel” in Mediterranean, Xinhua, 05/24/2024
– Houthis To Now Attack All Israel-Bound Ships, Expands Target Area To Mediterranean Sea, Marine Insight, 05/24/2024
– Yemen’s Houthis can range Mediterranean ships, Pentagon says, Al-Monitor, 05/22/2024
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