IntelBrief: Major Powers Struggle to Deter Houthi Shipping Attacks

Bottom Line Up Front

• The United States and its allies face a shortage of viable options to stop escalating Houthi attacks on commercial shipping and other targets.
• Houthi attacks have caused several large commercial shipping firms to avoid Red Sea routes, putting pressure on the United States and its allies to respond to the rebel movement more forcefully.
• A new U.S.-led coalition maritime mission, Operation Prosperity Guardian, might help better counter Houthi attacks but still may not deter the group’s aggression.
• U.S. leaders are considering strikes on key Houthi targets amid concerns that military action will widen the Israel-Hamas war and strengthen the Houthis politically.