Houthi rebels targeted a US-owned vessel, the M/V Gibraltar Eagle, with a missile in the Red Sea, prompting UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to issue a stern warning of potential additional military strikes. The incident occurred near Aden in Yemen, causing a fire on the Marshall Islands-flagged container ship. Sunak emphasized the need for action to cease threats to shipping and urged the release of unlawfully detained vessels.
Photo from: Reuters
Escalation in Red Sea Tensions
The missile strike on the M/V Gibraltar Eagle raises tensions in the Red Sea, with maritime security firm Ambrey suggesting it was a response to recent US military strikes on Houthi positions in Yemen. The UK Prime Minister underscored the necessity to uphold freedom of navigation while signaling a commitment to back words with actions in response to threats against shipping.
Sunak defended last week’s strikes on Houthi sites in Yemen, asserting they were acts of self-defense and aimed at maintaining freedom of navigation. The Prime Minister clarified that the military action was limited and proportionate, with no evidence of civilian casualties. He stressed the importance of scrutinizing the reduction in the Armed Forces while justifying the need for military expenditure.
Houthi rebels’ threats to disrupt ships bound for Israel through the Suez Canal prompted QatarEnergy, a major LNG exporter, to suspend shipments through the Red Sea. The suspension raises concerns about increased travel times and potential price hikes, reflecting the broader economic implications of the regional conflict.
READ ALSO:Â US Military Focuses On Protecting Red Sea Shipping Lanes Amidst Gaza Offensive
US Confirmation and Global Response
The US military confirmed the missile attack, attributing it to Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The ship reported no injuries or significant damage, continuing its journey. Qatar’s decision to halt tanker transits underscores the global repercussions of the escalating situation in the Red Sea.
Sunak faced questions from Members of Parliament regarding the reduction in Armed Forces and defense spending targets. While supporting the targeted action, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the need for a clear strategy to avoid escalation in the Middle East. Sunak defended the decision to announce military action when Parliament was not sitting, citing the imperative to maximize operational security.
READ ALSO:Â US Navy Issues Warning Amid Rising Tensions In Red Sea
