The U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney transits the Suez Canal, Egypt October 18, 2023. U.S. Navy/Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aaron Lau/Handout via REUTERS. THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY/File Photo
The recent announcement by the United States to establish a multinational coalition, Operation Prosperity Guardian, to safeguard shipping in the Red Sea has garnered mixed responses from several U.S. allies. The move comes in response to attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi group, which claims to be retaliating against Israel’s assault on the Gaza Strip. The situation has left shipping companies uncertain about the coalition’s effectiveness and has led to some rerouting vessels.
U.S. Initiative: U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin unveiled plans for Operation Prosperity Guardian, with participating nations including Britain, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, and Spain. The coalition aims to protect Red Sea shipping from Houthi attacks.
Allied Responses:
- France: France expressed support for securing freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, stating it operates in the region. However, French ships will remain under French command, and the extent of additional naval forces was not specified.
- Italy: Italy announced the deployment of naval frigate Virginio Fasan to the Red Sea in response to requests from Italian shipowners. This move is described as part of Italy’s existing operations, distinct from Operation Prosperity Guardian.
- Spain: Spain stated its participation in NATO-led or EU-coordinated operations but declined unilateral involvement in the Red Sea operation.
- Britain: The United Kingdom confirmed its participation, with destroyer HMS Diamond joining Operation Prosperity Guardian. The British defense ministry noted that the coalition would operate within the U.S.-led Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
- Netherlands and Norway: The Netherlands and Norway announced contributions of staff officers to Bahrain, where CMF is headquartered.
Existing Naval Coalitions: Several international naval coalitions are already operating in the region, with a focus on protecting shipping lanes. Key initiatives include:
- Operation Atalanta: Led by the European Union Naval Force Somalia (EUNAVFOR), it combats piracy off the Horn of Africa and in the Western Indian Ocean.
- Operation Agenor: A European-led operation ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil shipping lane.
- Combined Maritime Forces (CMF): A U.S.-led multinational maritime partnership with 39 members, including NATO and European states. CMF operates in the Red Sea through Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153).
- The diverse responses from U.S. allies highlight varying levels of commitment to the Red Sea coalition. While some nations, like Britain, are actively participating, others, such as Spain, are cautious about unilateral involvement. The existence of multiple naval coalitions in the region raises questions about coordination and effectiveness, emphasizing the complexity of maritime security efforts. The uncertainty among shipping companies underscores the need for clarity and collaboration to ensure the protection of vital shipping routes.
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