The Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen has escalated its attacks on vessels linked to Israel in the Red Sea, prompting a swift response from a United States warship. The Houthis, who control the Yemeni capital Sanaa and have a growing military presence, have vowed to continue the attacks unless Israel and the US intervene in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. These attacks have raised concerns about the stability of the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a vital shipping route connecting the Arabian Peninsula to the Horn of Africa.

Late on Sunday, the US military reported that three commercial vessels had come under attack in the strait. The Houthis claimed responsibility for strikes on two of the ships, including the Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier Unity Explorer, which sustained damage from projectiles fired by the group. In response to distress calls from the ships, the USS Carney, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, successfully shot down a Houthi drone and two additional drones.

The other two commercial ships targeted were the Panamanian-flagged bulk carriers Number 9 and Sophie II, both struck by missiles. Fortunately, no casualties were reported by the US Central Command.

Blaming Iran for enabling the attacks, the US has expressed its belief that Tehran is fully supporting the Houthis. Iran, however, has not officially commented on the recent attack, stating in the past that while it supports groups in Yemen, Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon, these groups operate independently. Nevertheless, the conflict between Iranian-backed Hezbollah and Israeli forces raises concerns of a potential regional escalation.

Yahya Saree, the Houthi military spokesperson, claimed responsibility for two of the attacks and reiterated warnings to all Israeli ships and those associated with them, threatening that they would become legitimate targets if Israel did not halt its attacks on Gaza.

The Bab al-Mandeb Strait, crucial to international trade, spans 25 kilometers (15 miles) and connects the Gulf of Aden to the Red Sea. By targeting this strategic shipping lane, the Houthis aim to impose significant financial costs on Israel and undermine its security while the conflict in Gaza continues. Israeli trade heavily relies on this route, and insurance costs for Israeli ships and goods will likely rise if the attacks persist.

The attacks also pose a threat to Eilat, a major Israeli port and resort town on the Red Sea, potentially causing a financial downturn if its security remains compromised.

This is not the first time the Houthis have targeted vessels in the Red Sea and southern Israel. However, their recent attacks represent a strategic shift as they focus on closer targets, which increases the chances of successfully inflicting significant damage. The group still holds a seized ship from last month and has previously downed a US drone.

The US military has condemned these attacks as a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security, pledging to consider appropriate responses. However, direct attacks on Yemeni soil by the US and Israel are unlikely, as both countries are currently engaged in other conflicts, including with Hezbollah and Iran-backed forces in Syria and Iraq.

As the situation unfolds, concerns remain about the stability of the region and the impact these attacks will have on international trade. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflicts.