The airstrikes in Yemen have further escalated the war in the Middle East, involving Britain and America and posing a risk of a wider conflict. Both countries have taken a risky option that may not yield desired results and could worsen the situation. This move will be seen by many in the region as active military support for Israel. The UK and US argue that they had no choice but to act in order to protect global shipping, which has been disrupted by the Houthis. However, there are concerns that this escalation could be counterproductive and dangerous.
The Houthis have proven to be a determined and resilient fighting force, making it unlikely that they will be deterred by these attacks. Their guerrilla tactics and mobile assets make it difficult for airstrikes to effectively destroy them. Instead, they are likely to retaliate and escalate their activities, with the support of Iran, potentially leading to attacks in unexpected places.
The intervention also brings Britain and America closer to a confrontation with Iran, as they are now directly fighting Iranian allies. This is a worrisome development for the Middle East, as it could have unintended consequences and lead to further escalation.
Mistakes and miscalculations in military offensives can easily lead to escalation and unpredictable outcomes. There is also a risk of Hezbollah, another Iranian proxy militia, getting involved and turning the conflict into a full-scale war along the Israel-Lebanon border. The necessity of these attacks and any future actions is being questioned, as the Houthis claim their attacks are in protest of Israel’s offensive in Gaza. A ceasefire in Gaza could potentially end their attacks, but Britain and America support Israel’s right to continue fighting until Hamas is neutralized.
While Britain and America claim that their actions are aimed at making the Red Sea safe and ensuring the security of shipping, many in the region see it as military force being used to support Israel and allow its Gaza offensive to continue. The ongoing war in Gaza has no clear end in sight, and its consequences are becoming increasingly grave across the region. The potential for further contagion and escalation is high.