The head of the Pentagon, Lloyd Austin, has announced the start of an operation to protect the Red Sea from Houthi attacks on civilian vessels carrying cargo for trade companies. This was reported on the website of the US Department of Defense.
The operation, as sources have previously stated, has been named “Guardian of Prosperity.” It will involve the participation of several countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Bahrain, and the Seychelles.
In his statement, the Pentagon chief clarified that the maritime operation aims to prevent Houthi attacks in the southern part of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
“The recent escalation of reckless attacks by the Houthis from Yemen threatens the free movement of trade, jeopardizes innocent sailors, and violates international law,” added the US Secretary of Defense.
The campaign will be led by the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
News about the US plans to announce the start of Operation ‘Guardian of Prosperity’ became known on December 17. Sources reported that Austin intends to make the announcement during his trip to countries in the Middle East.
In mid-December, US and British warships shot down drones launched by the Houthis from Yemen. Additionally, due to the threat of attacks, at least four international companies have decided to avoid routes through the Red Sea for their trade vessels.
Earlier, the Pentagon explained the reasons for extending the presence of an aircraft carrier group in the Mediterranean Sea.
