How are Houthis attacking Israel?

Iranian-backed Houthi militants, who control swathes of Yemen, have been involved in a series of attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea.

These attacks are in support of the Palestinian militant group Hamas during its conflict with Israel in the Gaza Strip. The Houthis have developed an impressive array of maritime attack capabilities, often with assistance from Iran. Their arsenal includes:

1. Ballistic Missiles: The Houthis have used ballistic missiles to target ships in the Red Sea.

2. “Kamikaze” Drones: These are drones loaded with explosives that can be flown into ships, causing significant damage.

3. Remote-Controlled Explosive-Laden Boats: These small boats are equipped with explosives and can be remotely guided to attack vessels.

4. Naval Mines: The Houthis have deployed naval mines in the Red Sea, posing a threat to shipping lanes.

5. Anti-Ship Missiles: These missiles are designed specifically to target ships at sea.

6. Maritime Drones: The Houthis use drones for surveillance and reconnaissance, as well as for launching attacks.

Motivation Behind the Attacks

The Houthis’ attacks on Red Sea ships are a response to the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. In an effort to support Hamas, they have fired drones and missiles towards Israel. While most of these attacks have been intercepted, some have successfully targeted commercial ships.

On November 19, the Houthis hijacked a British-owned and Japanese-operated ship in the Red Sea and have since attacked more than two dozen other vessels using drones, missiles, and speed boats. Their targets include ships that are Israeli-owned, flagged, or operated, as well as those heading to Israeli ports. However, it’s worth noting that some of the vessels attacked have no direct connection with Israel.

As a result of these attacks, major shipping companies have altered their routes, avoiding the Red Sea—through which almost 15% of global seaborne trade usually passes—and opting for a longer route around southern Africa instead.

The United States and the United Kingdom have responded by carrying out air strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen. These strikes aim to protect global shipping and maintain freedom of navigation in critical maritime routes.