In a significant development, the United States, along with its allies, is deliberating the possibility of military strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen. This consideration arises from the realization that a recently announced maritime task force aimed at protecting commercial ships in the Red Sea might not be sufficient to neutralize the threat to this vital waterway.
“US Contemplates Military Action Against Houthi Rebels in Yemen Amid Red Sea Tensions”
Sources familiar with the matter, requesting anonymity due to the sensitivity of internal deliberations, reveal that planning is in progress for actions designed to incapacitate the Houthis’ capacity to target commercial ships by addressing the militant group at its source. However, it’s crucial to emphasize that the US is still prioritizing diplomatic solutions and has not reached a final decision on military intervention.
While maintaining a diplomatic stance, insiders suggest that the Pentagon is gearing up to present President Joe Biden with the option of a “heavy” response to the Iran-backed militants. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, when asked about potential military action, refrained from revealing specific details, stating, “I wouldn’t telegraph any punches one way or the other.”
The urgency of these discussions reflects the growing concern that the existing multinational task force may not be adequate to safeguard commercial trade traversing the Red Sea. Recent Houthi attacks have compelled major companies to reroute their vessels around the southern tip of Africa, resulting in a longer and more expensive journey. This disruption has contributed to West Texas Intermediate reaching its highest price in over two weeks, settling near $74 a barrel. Companies such as BP Plc have announced a pause in shipments through the Red Sea.
The newly announced multinational task force, unveiled on Monday, is an expansion of current US efforts in the Red Sea. These efforts have primarily focused on intercepting incoming missiles and drones and providing assistance to ships that fall victim to attacks.
Contemplating strikes on the Houthi rebels in Yemen, their base of operations, comes with inherent risks. One major concern is the potential escalation into a broader regional conflict, a scenario that the Biden administration has actively sought to avoid, especially following Israel’s ground campaign against Hamas fighters in the Gaza Strip.
The situation remains fluid, and the US is navigating a delicate balance between protecting vital trade routes and avoiding unintended consequences that could exacerbate tensions in the already volatile region. As diplomatic and military considerations intertwine, the international community watches closely to see how the US and its allies navigate this complex geopolitical challenge.
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