Tensions in the Red Sea are escalating as the Houthis have intensified their missile and drone attacks on international vessels passing through the Red Sea, which they began last month in response to Israel's assault on Gaza. Compounding the situation is the circulating news of an Iranian destroyer getting closer to the Red Sea, accompanied by a military vessel aiming to establish a presence near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, according to the Iranian news agency Mehr.
The agency reported that the destroyer "Iran Alborz," which has moved towards the Red Sea with the military ship "Bushehr," is equipped with long-range cruise missiles. Iranian affairs expert Masoud Al-Faq suggested that Iran cannot prevent any U.S. operations against the Houthis unless it seeks to open a broad front in the war. He added that Tehran is unable to create this military balance, referring to its deployment of the destroyer to the Red Sea. He noted that all indicators suggest that Iran continues to approach the conflict pragmatically, and if it considered opening a broader front, it might do so in southern Lebanon.
Shipping Route Changes
The recent attacks compelled international shipping companies to reroute cargo typically passing through Bab el-Mandeb via the Suez Canal, now detouring around the Cape of Good Hope, resulting in increased time and costs. The likelihood of escalation has also risen after a direct military confrontation occurred on Sunday between the United States and the Houthis, where the U.S. Navy sank three Houthi boats, killing their crews after the group attacked a ship belonging to Danish company Maersk.
This situation coincides with U.S. officials revealing plans for targeted strikes against Houthi positions, including sites used for launching boats in maritime attacks. Additionally, a coalition named "Prosperity Support" has been formed by Washington alongside several countries to protect navigation in the Red Sea from Houthi attacks backed by Iran.
Drone and Missile Attacks
The Houthis have launched a series of drone and missile attacks on vessels they claim are "connected to Israel," a move that threatens to disrupt global trade. They state they will "continue these actions until sufficient food and medicine reach Gaza," which is currently bombarded and completely besieged by Israel in response to an unprecedented assault launched by Hamas on October 7 against Israeli territory. Iran acknowledges its political support for the Houthis, who have been at war since 2014 against the internationally recognized Yemeni government; however, Tehran denies providing them with military equipment.
