December 23, 2023

Houthis, a militant group based in Yemen, are escalating their attacks on "Israel-related" ships in the Red Sea, demanding retribution for Israel's military campaign in Gaza. 

During a televised speech on Wednesday, Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi said, "If the United States targets us, we will then retaliate by targeting U.S. battleships and interests in the region with our missiles, drones, and military operations."

This surge in tensions has prompted major shipping and oil companies to suspend transit through the critical maritime trade route, raising concerns about potential global economic repercussions. In response, the U.S. and more than 20 other nations formed a new coalition to safeguard ships navigating the Red Sea, the Pentagon said on Thursday.

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