Update. Operation Prosperity Guardian

The Pentagon announced on Thursday that more than 20 countries have now agreed to join the U.S.-led coalition, aiming to protect commercial traffic in the Red Sea from potential attacks by Yemen’s Houthi attacks. However, at least eight of these countries have chosen not to be publicly named, reflecting political sensitivities surrounding the operation amidst escalating regional tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder highlighted the participation of nations such as Greece and Australia. Denmark also agreed to take part two days ago.

There has been speculation on social media regarding Saudi Arabia and the UAE joining the “coalition of the willing,” as referred to by Gen. Ryder, although these reports are unconfirmed. If indeed Saudi Arabia and the UAE have joined, the lack of official naming could be attributed to political sensitivity. The remaining eight countries may not have been officially named, as in political speak, their roles are “unclear” at this time.

On December 22nd, Yemen’s Supreme Political Council member, Mohammad Ali al-Houthi, criticized the international maritime coalition safeguarding trade in the Red Sea, stating, that the coalition, rather than protecting freedom of navigation as claimed, is an effort to safeguard Israel’s interests. As reported on Flat out News earlier this week , he contended that, contrary to U.S. propaganda, the Red Sea route remains open for all except ships destined for Israel. Al-Houthi further alleged that the U.S. aims to militarize the Red Sea by increasing the deployment of warships and involving other nations in the process to legitimise these actions.

Gen. Ryder, also stated Houthi attacks on vessels transiting the Red Sea ¨aren’t attacking just one country, they’re really attacking the international community,”  the fact that ships continue to transit through the Bab-El-Mandeb strait shows that Mohammad Ali al-Houthi may have a point.

Al-Houthi declared that his government would prefer Saudi Arabia and the UAE not join the U.S.-led alliance, as he believes it would ultimately support Israelis involved in actions against Palestinians. He argued that aligning with Israel would be equivalent to opposing those who stand in support of Palestinians.

Despite being major powers and close U.S. allies, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been hesitant to openly join the U.S.-led coalition due to concerns about broader regional and domestic consequences.

Al-Houthi did express appreciation for Egypt’s decision not to join the coalition, despite significant pressure from the U.S. Egypt, a country heavily impacted by the announcement of over 12 shipping companies suspending operations through the Red Sea, has taken a stance against participating in the coalition. This suspension of shipping activities impacts them to the tune of USD 10 billion in annual revenue and poses a significant economic challenge for them, already grappling with a severe economic crisis.

In recent days there seems to have been a lull in attacks but do not confuse inaction on the part of the Houthis as fear. I think they are waiting to see the coalitions next move. We will keep you updated on further developments which you can also follow on Telegram https://t.me/flatoutnews or my Twitter/X account @rozzquito.