The Iran-allied Houthi group has issued a threat to broaden its objectives to encompass United States vessels, in response to strikes on its sites in Yemen by the U.S. and the United Kingdom.
Since November, Houthi attacks on ships in Israel’s three-month war with Hamas militants in Gaza have alarmed major powers and affected companies.
There are concerns that the attacks, in addition to causing disruptions to supply chains, may impede policymakers’ ability to effectively manage global inflation.
A spokesperson for the Houthis, Nasruldeen Amer, told Al Jazeera that, as a result of the strikes launched against Yemen last week, American and British vessels had become “legitimate targets.”
Prior to this, the Houthis had declared that they would only target Israeli vessels or those en route to Israel.
On Monday, U.S. Central Command reported that Houthi forces in Yemen targeted the dry bulk ship Gibraltar Eagle, owned and operated by the United States, with an anti-ship ballistic missile. There were no injuries or substantial property damage reported.
Container ships have been deviating from the Red Sea in order to reach the Suez Canal, the most expeditious maritime route connecting Asia and Europe. Many vessels have had to choose the longer route via the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.
