Houthi rebels intensify attacks in Red Sea, prompting international military response

For nearly a year, Houthi rebels from Yemen have intensified their attacks in the Red Sea, making maritime navigation more perilous. A surge in missile and drone strikes has targeted commercial vessels transporting goods and raw materials across the globe. This escalation has worsened in recent months, as noted by George Pastoor, commander of the EU’s Aspides mission in the Red Sea during the summer. He reported an almost threefold increase in attacks compared to the spring months of April and May, with each incident becoming more intense.

In response, the United States has initiated Operation Prosperity Guardian and Operation Prosperity Archer, while the EU deployed its mission Aspides, which includes three frigates and a support ship in the Red Sea. Italian forces recently took command of this EU mission, succeeding Pastoor.

Denmark has contributed a staff officer to the EU initiative and had its frigate Iver Huitfeldt participate in the American-led coalition from January to April. This presence gained attention after the vessel encountered repeated malfunctions in its weaponry during Houthi drone attacks. The threat to maritime traffic has only escalated since then. Pastoor explained that attacks now often involve multiple weapons targeting the same ship, increasing in frequency and intensity.

This August, the Greek-flagged oil tanker Sounion was hit by Houthi forces, causing a fire after its crew was evacuated. Currently, the EU’s Aspides mission operates with only four vessels, whereas there is a call for at least ten to effectively ensure safety on this crucial trade route. Denmark is exploring ways to enhance its contribution to maintaining international maritime security in the Red Sea, with defense officials stating that even with limited fleet resources, the possibility of deploying another frigate is being considered.