Red Sea Turmoil: Houthi Rebels Escalate Maritime Conflict with Attack on Maersk Hangzhou

The recent attacks on the MV Maersk Hangzhou, a Singapore-flagged container ship operated by Maersk, in the Red Sea by Houthi militants have brought to light the escalating maritime tensions in one of the world’s most crucial trade routes. On December 31, 2023, the vessel was attacked by Houthi boats and missiles, prompting a response from the US Navy. The Maersk Hangzhou, while reported as seaworthy with no injuries to its crew, became the center of a serious maritime security incident.

In the early hours of December 31, the Maersk Hangzhou issued two distress calls within a span of 24 hours. The ship was initially struck by a missile and later approached by Houthi boats, which tried to board it. US Navy helicopters from USS Eisenhower and USS Gravely responded to these distress calls. They engaged in a confrontation with the Houthi boats, sinking three of them and resulting in the death of several Houthi crew members; a fourth boat managed to escape. These actions were taken in self-defense as the Houthi boats had opened fire on the Navy helicopters and the vessel itself​​​​​​.

This incident was part of a series of attacks by the Houthi rebels against vessels they perceive to be linked to Israel in the Red Sea. Amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, these attacks have been framed by the Houthis as a response to Israel’s actions. The Red Sea is a critical maritime route, connecting the Suez Canal to the Indian Ocean, and handles about 12% of global trade, making it vital for the movement of goods between Asia and Europe​​.

As a result of the attack, Maersk, a major global shipping company, suspended its operations in the Red Sea for 48 hours. This decision underscores the heightened risks and ongoing threats to commercial shipping in the region. The US has launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, aimed at safeguarding ships in these waters, but attacks have continued, demonstrating the Houthis’ growing use of sophisticated weaponry like anti-ship ballistic missiles​​​​.

The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have been engaged in a protracted conflict with the Yemeni government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition. This regional conflict has broader implications for global trade and security, especially in the strategically important Red Sea corridor. The recent attacks and subsequent naval responses not only highlight the dangers posed to commercial shipping but also the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region.

In conclusion, the attacks on the Maersk Hangzhou represent a significant escalation in the maritime security situation in the Red Sea. They reflect the broader regional tensions and underscore the need for increased security measures and international cooperation to protect vital trade routes and ensure maritime safety.