In recent statements about the Red Sea security mission, the commander of US naval forces in the region reported that Washington-led forces had neutralized 19 drones and missiles launched by the Houthis within a span of less than a month. The strikes targeted commercial shipping, and the overall message was clear: threats to civilian vessels remain a persistent concern. The briefing was summarized by Bloomberg.
The commander noted that more than 1,500 international merchant ships had continued to traverse the Red Sea safely since the launch of Operation Welfare Sentinel. The objective, as described, centers on protecting all vessels rather than pursuing a ship-by-ship escort approach. This distinction highlights a broad, sea‑wide defensive posture intended to deter and reduce risk across the corridor used by global trade.
These remarks come as the United States and allied partners increasingly warn that stronger, more decisive steps may be required to counter persistent Houthi attacks. The ongoing threat remains a major factor in regional security discussions and influences perceptions of stability amid wider regional tensions. The related assessment notes that these attacks risk widening the conflict and impacting humanitarian and commercial operations in the region.
On December 19, a spokesperson for the Yemeni rebel movement Ansar Allah, commonly known as the Houthis, signaled intent to strike merchant ships in the Red Sea at regular intervals, specifically every 12 hours. This statement underscored the challenge of maintaining uninterrupted maritime traffic through critical lanes.
Earlier, defense officials announced the initiation of a protection operation aimed at shielding Red Sea shipping from Houthi assaults on vessels carrying cargo for global companies. The operation, described as Guardian of Welfare, is designed to mobilize multiple nations in support of maritime safety. Participating states include the United Kingdom, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Bahrain, and Seychelles, among others.
Past assessments have consistently indicated that there are no clear signs of an immediate end to the Houthi campaign in the Red Sea. The evolving security situation continues to prompt coordination among international partners, with a focus on maintaining safe passage for commercial traffic and limiting disruption to global supply chains.