A U.S. Navy destroyer took decisive action in the Red Sea on June 12, 2024, when it shot down multiple drones launched by Houthi forces. This incident, reported by U.S. Central Command, highlights the ongoing threats posed by Iran-backed militants in Yemen. Maritime security in a critical shipping lane continues to be at risk.
The USS Mason, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, successfully intercepted four unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that originated from Houthi-controlled territory. Fortunately, there were no injuries or damage reported on the vessel. Central Command confirmed that the destroyer acted in self-defense against the drones.
“The UAVs presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region,” Central Command stated. The military emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of commercial shipping and protecting freedom of navigation.
A Prolonged Campaign
This skirmish adds to over 60 reported attacks on international shipping by the Houthis since mid-November 2023. While the group claims its actions are in retaliation for Israeli military actions in Gaza, their targets include vessels with no ties to Israel. Defense experts suggest these assaults are part of a wider effort by Iranian allies to undermine Western military and economic interests.
Since late last year, the Houthis have deployed missiles, explosive drones, and fast attack boats against civilian vessels, mainly in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. These attacks are disrupting crucial global shipping lanes that handle 12% to 15% of international trade. Consequently, some companies have had to reroute oil tankers and cargo ships thousands of miles around the Cape of Good Hope, leading to increased delivery times, higher fuel costs, and ultimately, elevated prices for consumers.
In response, the Pentagon initiated Operation Prosperity Guardian in December 2023, forming a coalition that includes allies such as the United Kingdom, France, and Japan. U.S. warships have intercepted numerous projectiles, yet the campaign remains ongoing, underscoring the enduring nature of this threat.
Houthi Capabilities and Iranian Support
The Houthis, or Ansar Allah, are a militia aligned with Iran that seized Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, in 2014, and ignited a civil war. Western intelligence indicates that Iran has provided the Houthis with missile technology and drone-manufacturing components, contravening multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions.
The drones used in the June 12 incident are notably similar to Iranian Shahed drones, which have also been deployed by Russia against Ukraine. These drones are relatively inexpensive but can carry significant payloads and evade detection due to low radar profiles and erratic flight patterns.
“We assess the Houthis are continuing to receive technical assistance and hardware from Iran,” a senior defense official reported last month. The sophistication of their drone and missile operations exceeds expectations for a group without external support.
Strategic Impact on Shipping and Security
Shipping companies, such as Maersk, have begun rerouting vessels to evade potential attacks, resulting in increased costs. Estimates by the International Chamber of Shipping suggest that rerouting may add approximately $1 million in fuel expenses per trip, coupled with logistical delays that are typically passed along to consumers.
According to Lloyd’s List Intelligence, there has been a more than 40% decline in transits through the Suez Canal this year due to security fears. This drop in traffic has cost Egypt over $500 million in canal revenue since December 2023, severely impacting its economy.
The U.S. has bolstered its military presence in the region, deploying additional destroyers, carrier strike groups, and surveillance aircraft. Despite these efforts, drone and missile attacks from the Houthis persist, indicating that current deterrence measures are lacking.
International Response and Legal Ambiguities
The legality of U.S. and allied military operations in Yemeni airspace and waters raises complex issues. While U.N. Security Council Resolution 2216 condemns Houthi actions, there is no broad authorization for sustained military operations in Yemen. Critics warn that U.S. military engagement risks escalating the conflict further.
However, legal experts contend that Article 51 of the U.N. Charter allows nations to defend themselves against armed attacks. The U.S. asserts its actions to shoot down drones and target launch sites are justified under this principle.
U.S. Service Members Facing Escalating Risk
Though there were no injuries from the recent drone attack, prior incidents have placed U.S. forces in danger. For instance, on January 11, three U.S. personnel were wounded by a missile that struck a base in Erbil, Iraq. In April, a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone worth $30 million was shot down by Houthi forces.
The United States has taken retaliatory strikes against Houthi positions, yet military authorities recognize that addressing the root of the threat requires ground action, a course of action that the current administration has avoided.
“There is no zero-risk option,” a U.S. commander told reporters. “As long as the Houthis have the will and the means, they’ll keep doing this.”
Looking Ahead
The Biden administration has reiterated its intention to avoid a broader conflict in Yemen or the Middle East. However, the increasing frequency and accuracy of Houthi strikes necessitate a more proactive U.S. military role. With peace talks failing to progress in Yemen’s civil war, experts warn that retaliatory actions could lead to a larger conflict involving regional players.
For businesses, the ongoing threat is substantial. Maritime risk analysts report insurance premiums for vessels traveling through the Red Sea surged by as much as 400%. Some shipowners are even considering establishing convoy systems reminiscent of those used during the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s, a proposal lacking consensus among Western navies.
The U.S. Navy continues its patrols in these waters, focused on defending vital interests and ensuring the continuity of international commerce. The crew of the USS Mason illustrated that mission on June 12, executing it effectively. Nevertheless, there are no indications that the threats posed by the Houthis will diminish any time soon.
"*" indicates required fields
