New Delhi: In a menacing move, the Yemen-based Houthi rebels unleashed an assault on the Strinda, a Norwegian tanker, early Tuesday, intensifying concerns over security in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. The strike, executed via a cruise missile fired from Yemen, resulted in the vessel catching fire, with US authorities confirming the attack. Notably, the ships owner countered, asserting the cargo was destined for Italy and constituted biofuel feedstock, disputing the Houthis claim of oil transport to Israel.Houthis maritime aggression continuesThis marks a disturbing recurrence of Houthi attacks on merchant vessels navigating the Bab-el-Mandeb Straits. Notably, on November 19, the rebels successfully seized control of The Galaxy Leader, a cargo ship with a Bahamas registration. The rationale behind this attack was attributed to the vessels Israeli ownership, accentuating the geopolitical complexities surrounding the conflict.Indias stance amid rising tensionsWith the Houthis threatening to target ships bound for Israel unless Gaza receives humanitarian aid, the geopolitical landscape intensifies. Just days ago, India endorsed a Gaza ceasefire at the United Nations General Assembly. The recent Houthi aggression raises pertinent questions about Indias maritime interests, especially considering the strategic importance of the Bab-el-Mandeb Straits for sea lanes of communication.What is Indias stakes in safeguarding maritime bordersCommander Srikant Kesnur, a defence analyst, sheds light on the worrisome nature of these attacks, stressing Indias stakes in safeguarding maritime borders and trade routes. With a considerable population of seafarers and strategic interests at play, Kesnur highlights Indias vigilance. He emphasizes the evolving landscape of maritime warfare, where intelligence and awareness are paramount in navigating the complexities posed by entities like the Houthis.Decoding Houthi capabilitiesThe Houthi rebels have exhibited a sophisticated arsenal, deploying cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and even hijacking a car carrier bound for India. Commander Kesnur underscores the evident shift in maritime warfare dynamics, emphasizing the blurring lines between state and non-state actors. The high-level sophistication displayed by the Houthis indicates a departure from traditional piracy tactics, necessitating a recalibration of global maritime security strategies.The Houthis maritime aggression underscores the evolving challenges in safeguarding international waters, urging nations to reassess security measures amidst the complex dynamics of geopolitical conflicts.
