The US military recently reported an attack on an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker by a drone launched by Houthi militants controlling parts of Yemen. This marks the 15th attack on commercial shipping by the Houthis since the Israel-Palestine standoff. The Houthis, a Zaydi Shiite movement, have been in conflict with Yemen's Sunni-majority government since 2004.
Seizing Sanaa in 2014 and controlling much of north Yemen by 2016, the Houthis face accusations of receiving support from Iran and Hezbollah, which they and their backers deny. Tensions escalated in 2017 with a missile attack on Riyadh's airport claimed by the Houthis. In early 2022, the conflict widened as the Houthis targeted the UAE.
The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict has provided the Houthis and Iran an opportunity to expand their influence further. The recent attack on a crude oil tanker indicates the Houthis' ability to threaten commercial shipping in crucial routes such as the Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, Suez Canal, and the Mediterranean, with significant economic implications.
Following the killing of a senior officer in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran warned of the potential closure of the Mediterranean Sea if perceived "crimes" in Gaza persist. Although Iran lacks direct access to the Mediterranean, its proxies in Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon pose a threat to global trade.
In response, the US considers forming a maritime task force with France, the United Kingdom, and Israel to address the threat in the Red Sea. However, this move raises tensions, as demonstrated by recent attacks on US personnel in Iraq by Iran-backed militias.
Shipping companies are already rerouting via the Cape of Good Hope to avoid the conflict-ridden Red Sea, increasing costs. With the Russia-Ukraine ongoing war and the Gaza conflict spreading, economic turmoil looms for many countries.
Moreover, as Israeli soldiers' casualties increase, Prime Minister Netanyahu faces growing domestic discontent. Thousands had appeared on the Roads opposing Netanyahu. While Kashmir differs from Gaza, the potential for terrorists operating from Pakistan inspired by Hamas exists. Caution is necessary, considering Israel's military actions in Gaza may not be replicable in the Kashmir region.