23 Nov 2023 | 05:18 AM UTC
Red Sea: Heightened tensions likely in Red Sea region through end-November /update 1
Heightened tensions likely in Red Sea region through end-November in response to Gaza conflict.
Heightened tensions will likely continue around the Red Sea through at least end-November. The Al-Houthi rebels continue to target US and Israeli assets in the region in support of Palestine amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. On Nov. 23, the US Central Command announced that it had intercepted several drone attacks from Al-Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. The group also hijacked the "Galaxy Leader" shipping vessel in the Red Sea Nov. 19. The ship was likely targeted due to its alleged ownership by an Israeli businessman despite it flying under a Bahamian flag.
Heightened security is likely in the Red Sea as the conflict between Hamas and Israel continues to escalate. Further attacks are possible across the Red Sea in the coming days and weeks. An increased naval presence is highly likely in these areas in the short-to-medium term. Maritime disruptions could occur.
Exercise caution and reconfirm routes with maritime authorities if transiting or shipping freight near the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Companies should regularly review their ship security assessment and plan under the International Ship and Facility Security Code (ISPS), particularly in piracy-prone areas. Companies are advised to maintain strict anti-piracy watches and report all pirate activity, including both actual and attempted attacks, as well as suspicious sightings, to local naval authorities.
The Al-Houthi rebel group possesses an arsenal of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and weaponized drones, some of which have the range to strike targets in Israel, as well as extensive anti-shipping weaponry, including naval mines, waterborne improvised explosive devices (WBIED), and anti-ship cruise missiles. US, Saudi, and Emirati naval vessels, as well as a number of civilian ships, have been targeted during the nearly decade-long Yemeni Civil War.
The recent developments coincide with increased tensions in the region connected to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. The US is an ally of Israel. Anti-Western and anti-Israeli sentiment is currently heightened. Further attempted strikes against Israeli and US interests at sea and on land throughout the region are possible. Attacks could take various forms, including naval mines, anti-ship missiles, drone strikes, and harassment by small boats.
