European and American Forces Combat Houthi Attacks in Red Sea

Over the past year, European naval forces have successfully intercepted and neutralized nearly two dozen Houthi missiles and drones as part of their ongoing operations in the Red Sea. These actions come in response to the Houthis' persistent assaults on commercial shipping lanes, leading to the initiation of Operation Aspides by the European Union in mid-February of the previous year. This operation aligns with the efforts of American and British military forces to safeguard maritime routes from the Yemeni rebels.

In total, European forces have managed to destroy four missiles and 17 aerial drones, in addition to two naval drones, utilizing fire from warships and helicopters. With their mission set to conclude soon, there are indications that the Houthis may be reducing their offensive actions, which have significantly impacted shipping costs and caused some carriers to alter their routes, avoiding crucial passages like the Suez Canal.

Participating nations including Germany, France, Italy, and Greece have employed a range of weaponry including surface-to-air missiles and articulated guns from their ships to eliminate these threats. Additionally, the European mission has extended support to nearly 600 vessels, aiding in the close protection of over 350 and conducting life-saving operations for dozens of sailors at sea.

As the current mandate of Operation Aspides approaches its expiration date, questions loom regarding the possibility of an extension, especially given the mission's allocated budget of 8 million Euros (approximately $8.3 million USD). Meanwhile, the operational pace of US Navy initiatives against the Houthis has been markedly more intense, engaging hundreds of missile threats since late 2023, reflecting one of the most significant military challenges faced by American forces in decades.

The US has also implemented airstrikes against Houthi facilities in Yemen, targeting their capabilities. The rebels have framed their ongoing military campaign as a show of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, stating they will limit their future attacks to vessels linked to Israel after a recent ceasefire announcement.

In a potential shift in US military strategy, the re-election of the Trump administration could lead to a renewed approach toward the Houthi conflict, with the recent decision to label the group a foreign terrorist organization signaling a shift in policy from the previous administration. The White House emphasized a desire to collaborate with regional allies to mitigate Houthi threats to US interests and commercial shipping.