China and Russia have reached an agreement over shipping in the Red Sea with Yemen’s Houthi rebels, according to a report by the agency. According to the Bloomberg report, the Houthis agree that Russian and Chinese ships can pass through the Red Sea without fear of Houthi attacks.
Ships have been repeatedly attacked by the Houthis since November. According to their representation, these are ships connected to Israel. The attacks would continue until Israel ended its siege and attacks on Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Houthi solidarity with Hamas terrorists
The Houthi rebels control parts of Yemen and the coast. They belong to the so-called “Axis of Resistance” led by Iran and have declared solidarity with the radical Islamic Palestinian organization Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Hamas unexpectedly attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing more than 1,100 people and abducting about 250 hostages to the Gaza Strip. Since then, the Israeli army has been fighting Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
Cargo ships have to make a detour of 6,000 kilometers
Some of the world’s most important shipping routes pass through the Red Sea. Due to the attacks, most major container shipping companies are now avoiding the Red Sea, can no longer use the Suez Canal and must make a 6,000 kilometer detour around the African continent on their way from Asia to Europe. According to shipping associations, this journey takes almost two weeks longer and entails significant additional costs.
To protect shipping in the Red Sea, the US launched the ‘Operation Prosperity Guardian’ initiative at the end of last year, in which several countries are participating. The EU reached an agreement on the EU operation ‘Aspides’ in February. Austria participates in the EU maritime mission with two officers.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
