Red Sea Tensions: Houthi Attacks Spark Fears of Regional Conflict

Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted shipping in the Red Sea, escalating tensions amid the Israel-Hamas war. The attacks, which disrupted significant maritime trade, could provoke broader regional conflict, especially as Iran considers retaliation. Multiple vessels were targeted, though not all had direct links to the conflict, raising security concerns.

Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted shipping in the Red Sea on Tuesday, escalating fears of a wider conflict in the region amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Officials confirmed the attacks, marking a new phase in the Houthis' aggressive campaign, which is reportedly supported by Iran.

The assaults disrupted the flow of goods worth an estimated USD 1 trillion annually, crucial for trade between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. These incidents sparked some of the most intense US Navy combat operations since World War II.

The first attack occurred 115 kilometers south of Hodeida with an explosive device detonating near a ship. Hours later, another blast hit 180 kilometers northwest of the same port city. Although the Houthis did not immediately claim responsibility, they have previously targeted over 70 vessels, killing sailors and causing extensive disruption.

(With inputs from agencies.)