Houthi Military Strength and Tensions Impact US Maritime Coalition in the Red Sea
The Houthi rebels in Yemen pose a challenge to the US-led maritime coalition in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. While the USS Carney successfully intercepted 14 Houthi drones, experts warn that a swarm of drones could overwhelm the ship's defenses. Greek ship owners have rerouted vessels to avoid Houthi attacks, potentially impacting the global economy. The US-led coalition is limited in its response due to a negotiated ceasefire between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia. The Houthis possess an array of military capabilities, including naval mines, surface-to-air and cruise missiles, and UAVs, some of which were developed and produced in Yemen. The Institute for National Security Studies reports that the Houthis have medium- and long-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and a fleet of drones, many of which are supplied by Iran. The maritime threat from the Houthis includes naval missiles and skilled commando forces.