In a move to safeguard international shipping routes and protect maritime access, the United States has launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, an expansion of its maritime defense force in the Red Sea. The operation aims to counter the mounting attacks from the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group that have disrupted commercial activities and endangered innocent mariners.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the expansion on Monday, citing the recent reckless Houthi attacks originating from Yemen as a threat to the free flow of commerce and a violation of international law. Operation Prosperity Guardian builds upon the power of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), a 39-member international coalition operating under the U.S. Navy Fifth Fleet in Bahrain.

Within the CMF, a subdivision called Task Force 153 is dedicated to maintaining stability in the Red Sea. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby noted that the focus is on strengthening and operationalizing Task Force 153 in response to the Houthi attacks.

The need for increased defense in the Red Sea has been fueled by a wave of companies suspending their shipping activities due to the elevated threat from the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group. Oil giant BP announced its temporary suspension of shipping in the Red Sea, following in the footsteps of shipping firms like Maersk and MSC.

Operation Prosperity Guardian aims to deter further Houthi attacks and protect commercial ships navigating the Red Sea. The U.S. has already intercepted numerous Houthi drones targeting these ships.

As Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visits Israel, he has scheduled meetings with regional officials to discuss additional responses to the Houthi attacks. A more comprehensive Red Sea defense strategy is expected to be announced following these discussions.

In recent weeks, the Houthi rebel group in Yemen has intensified their drone attacks against commercial ships crossing the Red Sea. With their links to Iran, the Houthis have declared any ship associated with Israel as a "legitimate target" until the conflict in Gaza ends, putting numerous commercial vessels at risk.

Operation Prosperity Guardian represents the United States' commitment to ensuring the safety of shipping traffic in the Red Sea and preventing further disruptions caused by Houthi attacks. By strengthening the maritime defense force and collaborating with multinational partners, the U.S. aims to maintain stability and safeguard the global economy in the face of ongoing regional conflicts.