A new multinational initiative known as “Operation Prosperity Guardian” has been unveiled, aimed at securing safe naval passage through a vital trading route in the Red Sea. This came in response to multiple attacks on commercial ships by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, resulting in the suspension of transit through the area by major shipping companies and oil firms.
The primary objective of Operation Prosperity Guardian is to ensure security, stability, and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, as stated by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. To achieve this goal, the United States has secured the participation of several nations, including Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, the United Kingdom, Bahrain, the Seychelles, and Spain. Additionally, other countries have agreed to contribute to the operation through joint patrols and intelligence support in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
The attacks by Houthi rebels, which involved ballistic missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), resulted in significant danger and damage to vessels passing through the area. This prompted major shipping companies and oil firms to suspend transit through the important Middle East trading route, leading to potential global effects due to the corridor’s closure.
Operation Prosperity Guardian will be coordinated by the existing Combined Task Force 153, established in April 2022 to enhance maritime security in the Red Sea. The United States has also urged the U.N. Security Council to take action against the rebels and their supporters, such as Iran. Despite recent attacks on U.S. warships patrolling international waters, the U.S. has refrained from retaliating against the Iranian-backed Houthis or targeting their weapons and sites in Yemen.
In light of the escalating tensions and potential ramifications for international trade, the Pentagon has been approached for further comment on the matter. Moving forward, the success of Operation Prosperity Guardian hinges on collective efforts to address the challenges posed by non-state actors and maintain freedom of navigation in crucial maritime corridors.
