Challenges in Defeating the Houthis: The Limitations of Airstrikes Alone

U.S. airstrikes against the Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen may not suffice to curb their maritime attacks. Experts argue that air power alone often fails to secure victories, suggesting that ground forces may be necessary for effective intervention. Major shipping companies are also avoiding the Red Sea due to risks, complicating U.S. efforts to reopen crucial trade routes.

U.S. officials are concerned about Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and are considering airstrikes to counter this threat. Recent communications from the Trump administration revealed intentions to utilize air power to deter the Houthis and restore open shipping lanes to the Suez Canal. However, experts caution that airstrikes alone may not be sufficient to achieve these objectives.

Military analysts state the Iran-supported Houthis are resilient and their defeat would likely require more than aerial bombardments. The historical context shows that few conflicts have been solely resolved with air power, indicating that defeating the Houthis might necessitate a ground presence. Major shipping companies are also hesitant to resume activities in the Red Sea despite airstrikes, having found alternative routes that mitigate potential risks.

James R. Holmes, an expert on maritime strategy, posits that past military operations, like the intervention in Iraq during 1991, relied on both air and ground forces. He suggests that a sustained military occupation may be essential for a comprehensive solution to the Houthi situation in Yemen. Overall, overcoming the Houthi threat presents complex challenges that extend beyond simple airstrikes.

In summary, while the U.S. aims to deter Houthi aggression in the Red Sea through airstrikes, experts highlight that such measures may fall short without ground involvement. Resilient and well-supported by Iran, the Houthis pose significant challenges that demand a multifaceted approach, including possibly a military occupation. The reluctance of global shipping firms to return to the region further complicates efforts to secure vital maritime routes.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com