LONDON: A British Royal Navy destroyer, HMS Diamond, has joined the newly formed international maritime protection force known as Operation Prosperity Guardian to enhance maritime security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the UK government announced. This initiative aims to deter attacks from rebels on commercial vessels.
The United States officially introduced the 10-nation coalition on Monday, highlighting the need for a multinational response to counter Houthi drone and missile strikes that have been disrupting shipping in the region.
UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “These illegal attacks are an unacceptable threat to the global economy, undermining regional security and are threatening to drive up fuel prices.” Shapps added that the international nature of the problem necessitates an international solution, prompting the inclusion of HMS Diamond in Operation Prosperity Guardian.
The newly formed task force, which includes the UK, US, and French navies, seeks to protect shipping and vital trade routes in the Red Sea. The region is crucial for the transit of large amounts of goods and oil destined for Europe and the UK.
Attacks on Commercial Shipping in Red Sea
HMS Diamond was dispatched to the region last month to join the existing UK maritime presence in the water, which includes the frigate HMS Lancaster, three mine hunters, and a Royal Fleet Auxiliary support ship. Over the weekend, HMS Diamond, operating in the Red Sea, reportedly successfully intercepted and shot down a suspected Houthi attack drone that was tracking commercial shipping, according to the Ministry of Defense.
The move comes as part of a broader effort to deter future attacks and ensure the security of commercial shipping in the strategically significant waters. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s spokesman expressed confidence in the joint task force’s capacity, stating, “We are confident that a task force with the US, UK navies in particular, and with our French allies provides considerable capacity to deter future attacks and protect commercial shipping.”
