By , Balkis Layouni Department of International Relations and Strategic 24-07-2024

Introduction:

In recent months, the Houthi attacks on Israeli ships in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait have drawn international attention due to the gravity of the conflict and its potential to escalate further in the Red Sea. What is the strategic offensive role of the Houthis? What are the motivations and goals behind their attacks? And what could be the implications and consequences of these actions?

Strategic Offensive Role:

Definition and explanation of the Houthis’ strategic offensive role:

The Houthis are a rebellious group opposing Yemen’s internationally recognized government, widely accused of being backed by Iran. They are a Zaydi Shiite movement that has been fighting Yemen’s Sunni-majority government since 2004, leading to a civil war in 2014. They now control most parts of Yemen, including the capital Sanaa and some of the western and northern regions close to Saudi Arabia. Their influence in the region is growing, and they have developed equipment that strengthens their position. 

importance of Bab el Mandeb:

The Bab el-Mandeb is a crucial geographical choke point in the Red Sea. It is key to controlling almost all shipping between the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal. In fact, the Bab el-Mandeb, Red Sea, and Suez Canal are all vital links along the world’s key shipping route between Asia and Europe. 

importance of Bab el Mandeb:

Motivations and Goals: 

The Houthis’ recent attacks in the Red Sea come in the context of solidarity with the besieged Palestinian inhabitants of Gaza. Motivated by a mix of domestic political advantage, international alliances, and ideological disposition, they claim these attacks as a means of pressuring Israel to end its deadly incursion into Gaza and allow humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. By draining Israel’s economy and weakening its position, the Houthis aim to show their resilience and power, demonstrating their ability to confront both American and Israeli forces.

Houthis recent attack, Implications and Consequences:

Since October 19th, Houthi forces have launched multiple attacks, disrupting international shipping in the Red Sea, specifically targeting ships flying the Israeli flag or operated or owned by Israeli companies. On November 19, they seized the Galaxy Leader, a commercial ship in the Hodeidah port area in Yemen, due to its links with Israeli billionaire Abraham Ungar. Later, on December 3rd, they attacked two Israeli commercial ships named Unity Explorer and Number 9, using an armed drone and a naval missile. “One ship was significantly damaged and is in distress and apparently in danger of sinking, while the other ship was slightly damaged,” Hagari told reporters in Tel Aviv.

The repeated attacks on commercial shipping represent a threat to 

Global security:

The rapid deterioration of maritime security has been significant enough to divert shipping routes and disrupt supply chains, raising the prospect of inflationary effects around the world.

Yemen:

The increased risk of loss or damage to vessels in this area has raised the costs of imports due to higher transport and logistics expenses. For instance, insurance costs for shipping to the Aden port are 15 times higher than the regular rate, and these additional costs are ultimately borne by Yemeni consumers.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia:

The decrease in the number of ships going to King Abdullah Port and Jeddah Islamic Port, the largest transshipment centers and container ports in the Kingdom, has been notable. Additionally, Maersk had to suspend its project in the Red Sea, leading to the rerouting of ships around the Cape of Good Hope.

Israel:

The main victim of the recent attacks is Israel, which has seen an 85% reduction in activity at the Port of Eilat in the last few months. This port is crucial for the import of cars and the export of potash from the Dead Sea, and partially for Israeli trade, compared to the ports of Haifa and Ashdod on the Mediterranean that handle the bulk of the country’s commerce. The alternative to using Eilat is more expensive and time-consuming, as rerouting ships around the Cape of Good Hope takes 2 to 3 weeks instead of 1 week and requires navigating around the southern tip of Africa. As a result, some companies, such as Azrieli, Shufersal, and Melzeron, are closing their online shops. Additionally, the Port of Eilat makes the country less dependent on the Suez Canal.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the conflict in the Red Sea is a complex issue that demands concerted efforts and collaboration among international stakeholders to achieve lasting peace and stability. Addressing the underlying tensions and working together to secure vital maritime routes is essential for mitigating further escalation and fostering a peaceful resolution.