All articles tagged with #merchant ships
Despite warnings from the UK and US navies to avoid the southern Red Sea due to the threat of Houthi militant attacks, a large number of merchant ships have continued to navigate the area. Concerns about reprisals have arisen after the UK and US conducted bombings in Yemen to deter attacks on commercial vessels by the militants.
In an effort to avoid attacks by Houthi militants in the Red Sea, at least five vessels have signaled their links to China, with some indicating "all Chinese crew" in their destination field. The surge in attacks by the Houthis has led to significant disruption in the global merchant fleet, causing a plunge in Suez Canal transits. Ships are choosing to sail around Africa to avoid the Red Sea, and some are indicating no links to Israel in an attempt to avert attacks.
US warships in the Red Sea have been engaging in battles with Houthi forces in Yemen, shooting down drones and protecting commercial ships. The US Navy has not disclosed the specific weapon systems being used, but experts believe they include surface-to-air missiles, explosive shells, and close-in weapons systems. However, the cost of intercepting drones with expensive missiles may become a concern as the Houthi attacks continue. The US Navy's ability to protect merchant ships and replenish missile inventory in the region is also a challenge. The US-led operation to expand the number of warships protecting merchant vessels, called Operation Prosperity Guardian, aims to address these issues. The experts suggest that offensive action against the source of the attacks may become necessary in the future.
US warships in the Red Sea have been engaging in battles with Houthi forces in Yemen, shooting down drones and protecting commercial ships. The US Navy has not disclosed the specific weapon systems being used, but experts believe they include surface-to-air missiles, explosive shells, and close-in weapons systems. However, the cost of intercepting drones with expensive missiles may become a concern as the Houthi attacks continue. The US Navy's ability to protect merchant ships and replenish missile inventory in the region is also a challenge. The US-led operation to expand the number of warships protecting merchant vessels, called Operation Prosperity Guardian, aims to address these issues and receive international support. The experts suggest that striking the source of the attacks may be a more cost-effective approach in the long run.
The US will increase its defensive posture in the Persian Gulf with heightened patrols after Iran seized two merchant ships in recent weeks. The US will also increase coordination with the International Maritime Security Construct and increase the rotation of ships and aircraft patrolling the Strait of Hormuz. The US has condemned Iran's actions and is committed to protecting navigational rights in the critical waters. This comes amid a fraught relationship between the US and Iran, with tensions escalating in recent years.