In a conflict reminiscent of the historic "Tanker War," the United States Navy finds itself once again defending commercial vessels in the volatile waters of the Middle East. The current battle involves the Yemen-based Houthi rebels targeting both merchant and military ships, posing a threat to global trade flow through the Red Sea.

The Tanker War, which took place nearly 40 years ago, saw the Navy protecting commercial shipping following a fatal incident involving the USS Stark. In 1987, two Iraqi missiles struck the frigate, resulting in the death of 37 American sailors. This tragic event marked the beginning of an American convoy operation aimed at ensuring the safety of merchant ships in and near the Persian Gulf.

Drawing parallels to the Tanker War, analysts highlight the evolving nature of naval warfare in the conflict with the Houthis. The Navy's defensive actions now involve countering a higher number of missile systems for extended periods. Such engagement requires the Navy to defend against a multitude of incoming missiles, a challenge not seen in recent years.

The importance of safeguarding the free flow of commerce in the region cannot be overstated. An estimated 11 percent of global trade transits through the Red Sea, making it a preeminent national interest for the United States. Ensuring the safety of commercial vessels has become a priority, as America uses its military might to protect trade routes in the face of Houthi attacks.

Reflecting on historical lessons, experts note that the Navy has previously engaged in missions to protect commercial vessels, such as the Yangtze River Patrol in the 1920s and deployments during conflicts like the Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Gulf War. These experiences have shaped important principles for the Navy, including the need to maintain well-trained watch teams and emphasize damage control training.

The ongoing clashes with the Houthis have prompted the United States to create Operation Prosperity Guardian, a multinational security coalition. This coalition aims to protect ships transiting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, essential corridors for global commerce.

While the Houthis' attacks began in October, with ties to the group's solidarity with Hamas, the conflict has escalated in recent months. A catalog of near-daily clashes between the U.S. Navy and the Houthis highlights the increasing tensions in the region.

As the conflict unfolds, lawmakers question whether President Joe Biden requires congressional authorization to defend foreign commercial vessels or launch strikes against the Houthi militants. Historically, the United States' involvement in conflicts like the Tanker War was also motivated by factors such as aiding allies, securing funding, and countering geopolitical influences.

The U.S. Navy finds itself navigating a complex and evolving conflict in the Middle East, where the seas have become a battleground for protecting commercial shipping lanes. With naval forces engaged in defensive actions against the Houthi rebels, the Navy continues to adapt and respond to ensure the safety and uninterrupted flow of global trade through the Red Sea.