🇺🇸 Western Coalition Unveils ‘Operation: Guardians of Prosperity’ amid Escalating Tensions in the Red Sea

Last Updated on July 20, 2024

In response to escalating tensions in the Red Sea, the United States has spearheaded the formation of a new international naval coalition named ‘Operation: Guardians of Prosperity.’ Comprising countries such as England, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and Spain, the coalition aims to ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab.

However, the absence of Saudi Arabia and the UAE from this military alliance raises questions about regional dynamics and potential repercussions for the newly formed coalition. This development comes in the wake of Yemen’s targeting of ships en route to Israel, disrupting the trajectory of the conflict in Gaza.

The Biden administration’s decision to mobilize Western fleets, potentially including an Israeli one, has shifted the focus away from pressuring Israel to halt its assault on the Gaza Strip. Instead, the emphasis is now on safeguarding Tel Aviv’s economic, political, and military interests through the establishment of a naval task force.

Amidst increased naval operations by Yemen’s Ansarallah-aligned armed forces against Israel-bound vessels, the US claims its mobilization is aimed at preventing the expansion of Israel’s conflict into a regional confrontation. Officially, Washington urges Tel Aviv to reconsider its indiscriminate attacks on civilians in Gaza. However, critics argue that the White House’s rhetoric merely serves to buy Israel more time to achieve its objectives in Gaza and eliminate Palestinian resistance.

The proposal to assemble an international naval force for Red Sea navigation protection is seen as a manifestation of the unconditional US support for Israel. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s announcement in early December triggered heightened threats of military retaliation from Tel Aviv against Yemen for obstructing Israeli ships and those affiliated with Israeli interests in the Bab al-Mandab. The unfolding situation underscores the intricate geopolitical challenges in the region and raises concerns about the potential consequences of the coalition’s involvement.