US Defense Secretary Calls on Nations to Assist in Securing Navigation in the Red Sea

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urged dozens of countries to take steps to address Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea during a meeting of defense ministers aimed at promoting a new military operation to secure trade in the waterway. Austin stated, according to prepared remarks, "We are all here because many nations can contribute directly to our shared efforts to keep strategic waterways safe." He added, "These reckless Houthi attacks represent a serious international problem and require a firm international response." Earlier today, Austin announced the launch of a US-led operation that will include joint patrols in the Red Sea.