Saudi-Backed Offensive Aims to Counter the Houthi Maritime Threat
Saudi Arabia has coordinated with Yemeni government forces alongside its defence partner Pakistan, suggesting the Kingdom is seeking a limited partner-based intervention. Although a successful military campaign could reduce risks to commercial shipping, it may also result in a greater Houthi response against Saudi critical infrastructure.
Red Sea Insecurity Tests Europe’s Maritime Security Capacity and Response
Ongoing conflict in the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz has applied pressure on the EU’s ASPIDES mission. Continued disruption and the uncertainty of the operating environment, alongside the rapid territorial advance of the Houthis, have complicated and constrained EU capacity in the region. The ASPIDES mission may increasingly become one that includes European economic security and supply-chain resilience to ensure trade continues, rather than solely an operation intended to uphold international law.