The U.S. took another step toward world war with the creation of a multinational force to combat Iran-backed Houthi rebels attacking ships in the Red Sea. The terrorist blockade of Israel has forced major shipping lines to avoid the area, drastically increasing transportation costs.
The Biden administration has assembled more than 20 coalition members for “Operation Prosperity Freedom,” with 10 more countries involved anonymously, according to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. They include the United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain. Saudi Arabia and Egypt, which have substantial maritime interests in the area, have declined to participate.
The region is on edge as Israel wages war against Hamas in response to a brutal attack in October that saw militants enter Israel from the Gaza Strip and torture, rape, and murder hundreds of civilians. The assault has galvanized public sentiment, with many condemning Hamas, while others defending them, including Iran, which is supporting the Houthis.
 |
| File Photo |
The task force currently includes U.S. destroyers Laboon, Carney, and Mason. The United Kingdom's HMS Diamond, a guided missile destroyer, and a frigate from Greece’s Hellenic Navy, are also patrolling the region. Over the weekend, the Naval force shot down more than a dozen drones. The operation isn’t assuaging maritime interests, however, with over 100 ships reportedly diverting from the Suez to the much longer route around Africa.
Rerouting of ships by petroleum giant BP has led to a surge in oil and gas prices, raising concerns about possible disruptions to global supply chains and escalating prices.
The situation is another example of a world in turmoil since Biden took office after four years of peace under President Trump. Showing weakness after Biden hastily withdrew all troops from Afghanistan, leaving behind billions in armaments at the Bagram Air Base, the U.S. has been pulled into Russia’s war with Ukraine and the Israeli conflict, as well as seeing a military build up by China as it gears up for an expected invasion of Taiwan.
The Houthis responded to Austin’s announcement of Operation Prosperity Guardian by vowing to launch more attacks. “Whoever moves with the Americans and involves himself in protecting Israeli ships knows that he is providing an exclusive service to Israel and harming international navigation,” Houthi leader Abdulmalik Al Houthi said in a statement. “We are not one of those who stand idly by while the enemy strikes us.”