US, Allies Launch New Task Force To Protect Ships in Red Sea

In response to escalating attacks on ships in the Red Sea, the US and a coalition of nations have established Operation Prosperity Guardian, a new multinational security initiative aimed at safeguarding maritime trade and ensuring regional stability.

US and Allies Form New Force to Protect Ships in Red Sea

In response to escalating attacks on ships transiting the Red Sea, the United States and a coalition of nations have joined forces to establish Operation Prosperity Guardian, a multinational security initiative aimed at protecting vessels from drone and ballistic missile threats emanating from Houthi-controlled regions of Yemen.

Heightened Security Concerns Prompt Collective Action

The severity of the attacks, which have caused damage to several vessels, has compelled shipping companies to halt their operations and await improved security conditions before entering the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the need for collective action to address this international challenge.

Multinational Collaboration for Enhanced Security

The United States, along with Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, Spain, and the United Kingdom, will participate in the new mission. While some countries will engage in joint patrols, others will provide intelligence support in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

Leveraging Existing Infrastructure for Coordinated Response

Operation Prosperity Guardian will be coordinated through the existing Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153), established in April 2022 to bolster maritime security in the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb, and the Gulf of Aden. While CTF 153 comprises 39 member nations, officials are currently determining which countries will actively participate in this latest endeavor.

US Naval Presence for Deterrence and Response

To deter and respond to potential attacks from the Houthis, three US Navy destroyers—the USS Carney, the USS Stethem, and the USS Mason—have been conducting daily patrols through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Escalating Violence Prompts Expanded Operation

The decision to establish Operation Prosperity Guardian was prompted by a series of attacks on commercial vessels by missiles fired by Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen on December 3. These attacks form part of an escalating campaign of violence that includes armed drones targeting US warships.

Questions Linger over Counterstrike

Despite the attacks, the United States has refrained from retaliating against the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen or targeting their weapons or other sites. Defense Secretary Austin declined to provide an explanation for the Pentagon's decision not to conduct a counterstrike.