Pentagon Announces Joint Mission with 10 Nations to Protect Ships in the Red Sea

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has declared the commencement of an international operation to safeguard the Red Sea in response to terrorist attacks by Houthi rebels on commercial vessels. This announcement is detailed in a statement published on the official website of the US Department of Defense.

The operation, named "Guardian of Prosperity," represents an international initiative under the auspices of the United Maritime Forces. "The operation will bring together several countries, including the United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, and Spain, to collectively address security challenges in the southern part of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, with the aim of ensuring freedom of navigation and strengthening regional security," Austin stated.

The head of the Pentagon emphasized that Houthi attacks pose a threat to free navigation, endanger sailors, and violate international law. Austin also called on countries committed to upholding the fundamental principle of freedom of navigation to unite against the Houthis, who deploy ballistic missiles and drones against merchant ships.

"The Red Sea is a crucial waterway necessary for freedom of navigation and a major trade corridor facilitating international commerce," underscored Austin.

Recall that in mid-November, in support of Hamas terrorists, Yemeni Houthis announced their intention to target all ships in the Red Sea heading to Israel, regardless of the nationality of their owners.

In particular, on Friday, December 15, a projectile launched by Houthi rebels struck the cargo ship "Al Jazeera," flying the flag of Liberia. The ship caught fire, but according to preliminary data, there were no casualties as a result of the attack. It was also previously reported that on December 11, Houthi rebels launched an anti-ship missile at a Norwegian tanker in the Red Sea. The attack caused a fire and damage but resulted in no loss of human life.

Due to such incidents, British energy giant BP announced on Monday its decision to halt oil transit through the Red Sea, citing growing concerns about security and aligning with other companies. BP's decision is coordinated with similar actions by other companies amid increasing military tensions in the region.