US Navy ships and commercial vessels navigating through key Middle Eastern waterways are facing a significant challenge from Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who have been launching drone and missile attacks in the region. While the American warships have been able to manage the threat so far, concerns are growing over the potential risks posed to international shipping.

Over the past two months, the Iran-backed militants have carried out a series of attacks off the coast of Yemen, with the most recent being the largest to date. The attacks have included hijacking a cargo ship in the Red Sea and firing missiles at a commercial ship in the Gulf of Aden. On Sunday, Houthi missiles struck three commercial ships during a prolonged attack that drew the involvement of a US Navy destroyer.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has issued a statement declaring that these attacks represent a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security, putting the lives of international crews at risk. The Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for targeting these ships due to their alleged connections to Israel and their opposition to Israel's war against Hamas, another Iran-backed group.

Experts have noted that the Houthi rebels possess a formidable arsenal, including ballistic and cruise missiles, attack drones, anti-ship capabilities, and sea mines. It is widely believed that they are armed, trained, and supported by Iran. As a result, the US holds Iran responsible for the ongoing attacks on commercial shipping, calling them the "ultimate party responsible."

Despite the Houthi rebels' weaponry, naval warfare experts argue that the threat they pose to well-defended US Navy ships is currently manageable. American warships are equipped with advanced radars, surface-to-air missiles, close-in weapons systems, and other defenses that can effectively counter the attacks. However, there is still concern that the rebels' willingness to target international shipping could lead to unforeseen incidents.

To address this growing issue, the US is in discussions with partner countries to establish an international maritime task force that will ensure safe passage for ships in the Red Sea. The Combined Maritime Forces, a naval partnership consisting of 39 nations, already has a task force focused on security in the Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden.

While the current risk may not be high for American warships in the region, officials emphasize that the Houthi rebels constitute a significant threat to global commerce. The vessels targeted by the rebels are responsible for transporting goods vital to the world economy, making the protection of commercial traffic a top priority.

As for potential responses, experts argue that the US Navy is capable of defending shipping without resorting to military action inside Yemen. Taking military action could lead to a costly and prolonged conflict that is not currently deemed necessary. Instead, experts suggest implementing defensive measures to deter future attacks, while maintaining the ability to respond swiftly and resolutely if necessary.

The ongoing missile and drone attacks raise questions about whether the US will take kinetic action against the Houthi rebels. In the past, the US military has launched retaliatory strikes on Yemeni coastal radar sites and other Iran-backed militias. However, experts caution against rushing into such actions and advocate for a measured approach to avoid being dragged into a protracted conflict.

The Houthi rebels' actions continue to be monitored closely, as their capabilities and intentions evolve. Efforts to ensure the safety of international shipping in the region are ongoing, with the establishment of an international maritime task force being a potential solution to this growing challenge.