courtesy: Axios
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U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday announced the plans of expanding a multinational maritime security force to protect ships in the Red Sea from missile and drone attacks from Iran-back Houthi rebels in Yemen.
In a statement Austin said, “The recent escalation in reckless Houthi attacks originating from Yemen threatens the free flow of commerce, endangers innocent mariners, and violates international law.”
Due to the frequent attacks on the cargo, shipping companies including BP have halted cargo transits through Red Sea.
The new security initiative, which has been named Operation Prosperity Guardian, comes under the umbrella of the Combined Maritime Forces and the leadership of its Task Force 153, which will be focusing on the security of the Red Sea.
Austin held talks on Monday wherein the key point to discuss was the Houthi’s threats of disturbing the international maritime shipping line.
Israeli and U.S. officials have said Austin was expected to announce Tuesday the establishment of a revamped maritime task force that will be tasked with escorting the ships in the Red Sea and deterring any Houthi attacks.