Houthi forces may resume Red Sea attacks, threatening global energy supply after thwarted strikes on Israel, raising concerns over maritime security.
The Houthi leadership has openly demonstrated its support for Iran and Palestine, launching two drone and four missile attacks against Israel by April 4. All of these attacks were thwarted, and no damage occurred.
Officials state that these attacks carry a message of solidarity and that similar initiatives may continue until the war against Iran ends. A possible Israeli retaliation could escalate the scale of these attacks.
Considering calls for support from Iran and public reactions, the Houthis announced that they could resume attacks on ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden at a time of their choosing.
Experts suggest that if this scenario materializes, its impact on global energy supply could be even more severe than the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Disruption of the daily transport of over 5 million barrels of Saudi oil through the Bab el Mandeb Strait from Yanbu could particularly strain Asian markets.
Unlike the Strait of Hormuz, it has previously been experienced that commercial vessels can transit through the Red Sea with the accompaniment of strong naval forces.
However, in the event of a threat, Saudi Arabia's intervention is seen as inevitable. This situation could also jeopardize the Saudi-Houthi ceasefire that has been in place since 2022. It is noteworthy that the Saudi Western Fleet has been reinforced with modern corvettes in recent years.
It is stated that the Egyptian Navy could also participate in Saudi Arabia's potential intervention under the maritime cooperation agreement.
Under the European Union's Operation Aspides, ships stationed in the region are currently carrying out patrol duties. The operation's authorization until February 2027 strengthens the possibility of rapid intervention.
It is noted that the force, which includes Greek, Italian, and possibly French elements, could be reinforced by other naval assets from Europe if necessary.
While support from the U.S. Central Command is expected, it is assessed that the 50th Destroyer Squadron (DESRON 50), one of the main components of the mission, may provide limited contributions due to its intensive operational schedule.
This situation could create gaps, particularly in air defense, intelligence, and command-control capabilities; however, it is stated that these deficiencies could be addressed with appropriate coordination.
It is emphasized that the closure of the Bab el Mandeb Strait would have direct effects on Asian economies dependent on Middle Eastern oil. Therefore, it is mentioned that Asian fleets may also participate in a potential maritime security operation.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
