US Military Considers Escorting Commercial Ships in Red Sea Amid Iranian-Backed Militant Attacks

The US is considering providing escort protection for commercial ships in the Red Sea amid a series of missile attacks by Iran-backed Houthi militants operating out of Yemen. Discussions have taken place with members of the Combined Maritime Forces, and seven nations have already offered to help. The Houthi rebels have targeted commercial ships with drones and missiles, and their recent attacks have raised concerns about the disruption of the vital shipping route. While the US is not currently planning to strike the Houthis, all options remain on the table. The attacks are seen as opportunistic rather than part of a strategic effort by Iran to escalate the conflict.