From Waves to Worries: Red Sea Conflict Hits India's Trade & National Security

Today, we're diving into a topic that's been making waves - the Red Sea conflict. Since mid-November, Houthi rebels in Yemen have been strategically targeting commercial ships in the lower Red Sea, creating ripples across global trade. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. How did the ongoing Gaza war find a new battleground in the Red Sea? and why is this significant for India? Let's break down in detail. 

WHO ARE THE HOUTHIS?

Before we delve further, let's kick start with the backstory. Who the Houthis are? They are a militia group representing Zaidism, a branch of Shia Islam, and they once ruled Yemen. Backed by Iran, the Houthis have been a key player in the Yemeni civil war and control significant portions of the country, including the Red Sea coastline. And now, they're flexing their influence globally, shaking up the trade landscape in solidarity with Gaza and against Israel.

IMPORTANCE OF RED SEA

Now picture this: The Red Sea, with its Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. It's not just a body of water; it's like a superhighway for international trade. 

It links the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean. It's the lifeline for 30% of global container traffic and a whopping 12% of global trade! Imagine the chaos when this vital route is under threat – it's a global concern.

HOW THE CONFLICT AFFECT INDIA?

Now, let's bring it closer to home – India. The Red Sea conflict is not a distant echo; it's a direct hit on India's trade, shipping routes, and national security. Houthi rebels have targeted commercial ships, including the recent attack on the M V Chem Pluto in Mangalore on December 23. As these attacks escalate, India is closely monitoring the situation. The Indian Navy is on high alert mode in the North and Central Arabian Sea. Although officials claim maritime trade won't take a significant hit, concerns linger about potential disruptions to India's crude oil imports.

India heavily relies on the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait for crucial resources and trade connections. Houthi attacks are sending shockwaves through Indian trade, especially with the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Shippers are changing their routes through the Cape of Good Hope, causing about 20 days of delays. The incidents like seizure of the Galaxy Leader and the altering of shipping routes are sounding alarm bells. The potential impact of increased travel time, higher fuel costs, and inflation in goods prices affects the common man. The recent talks among government officials, shipping companies, and exporters hint at a potential shipping cost surge of up to 60 percent. It's a financial storm on the horizon.

CONCLUSION

To mitigate the impact of Houthi attacks, the United States launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, enlisting support from countries like Italy, France, the United Kingdom, Bahrain, and Seychelles. Despite their efforts, the attacks persist, and the absence of Arab states in this initiative poses challenges. In response to the threat, the Indian Navy has deployed destroyers and aircraft to safeguard its shipping interests. As the Red Sea conflict poses significant challenges globally, more extensive coordination with partner countries is essential for long-term stability.