White House Declassifies Intelligence Linking Iran to Houthi Attacks on Red Sea Shipping
The Biden administration, on Friday, escalated its stance against Iran, revealing declassified intelligence that implicates Iran in the planning of Houthi rebel attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea. This development intensifies the crisis surrounding the vital global shipping route, yet the administration has refrained from re-designating the Houthis as a terrorist group.
According to White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson, Iran has played a significant role in supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The support includes the provision of weapons, funding, training, and tactical intelligence, crucial for the Houthi's strikes along this crucial sea corridor.
The intelligence points to Iran's involvement since 2015, supplying advanced weapons systems to the Houthis, such as Unmanned Aerial Systems, Land Attack Cruise Missiles, and ballistic missiles. These weapons have been deployed in attacks against maritime vessels, including those with no connections to Israel, as well as in assaults targeting Israel since October.
Watson emphasized that the Houthis' ability to track and strike commercial vessels effectively hinges on the continued support from Iran. Despite this backing, Watson noted that Iran often allows the Houthis operational decision-making autonomy.
The US has not detected any efforts by Iran to restrain the Houthis from engaging in what Watson described as "reckless behavior." The Houthis' actions have led numerous companies to suspend operations along the critical trade route.
In response to the escalating situation, the US has formed a naval coalition to safeguard the global shipping lane in the Red Sea. However, the Biden administration has not yet reversed its decision to remove the Houthis from the list of terror organizations, a move that is still under consideration.
On Thursday, Greece announced its participation in the US-led naval coalition, Operation Prosperity Guardian. Australia also pledged support by sending 11 personnel, though it will not deploy warships or planes, focusing its military efforts on the Pacific region.
The task force, announced by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, includes several countries like Britain, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, and Spain. Some countries have agreed to be involved but prefer anonymity.
The Houthi rebels justify their missile and drone strikes on shipping routes as support for Palestinians in the Gaza conflict between Israel and Hamas. They have targeted ships heading to or linked with Israel, though some attacks have involved vessels without clear ties to Israel.
This unfolding scenario underscores the strategic significance of the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, through which approximately 10% of global trade passes. The Houthi attacks near this critical chokepoint have compelled shipping companies to alter their routes, highlighting the broader implications of regional conflicts on international trade and security.