The HMS Diamond of the British Royal Navy is set to become part of an international task force aimed at safeguarding maritime routes in the Red Sea, a response to recent attacks by Houthi rebels.
The UK’s decision aligns with increasing security concerns in the area.
The US Defense Secretary under President Joe Biden, Lloyd Austin, declared that American ships would collaborate with naval forces from the UK, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, and Spain, forming a new US-led multinational fleet.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak informed his cabinet about the challenges in the Middle East, highlighting that malign forces are exploiting the region’s instability.
He noted that Houthi assaults have caused some companies to halt their sea transit through the region. Sunak emphasized the UK’s commitment to protecting free trade, mentioning that HMS Diamond and HMS Lancaster are already in the vicinity to provide the necessary deterrence.
The Prime Minister’s spokesperson pointed out the involvement of Iran-backed rebels and Iran’s attempts to destabilize the area, underscoring the UK’s awareness and collaborative efforts with allies to safeguard commercial shipping.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps expressed that these unlawful attacks pose a significant threat to global economic stability, jeopardizing regional security and potentially increasing fuel prices.
He stressed the need for a global response to this challenge, hence HMS Diamond’s participation in Operation Prosperity Guardian.
“This new task force will protect shipping and vital trade routes in the Red Sea, where large amounts of goods and oil transit through to Europe and on to the UK.
“Our Royal Navy personnel are protecting British interests in an increasingly contested part of the world. Their valuable contribution to upholding peace and security should not be underestimated and we thank them for their service, especially during this festive period.”
