Indian Navy Chief Raises Concerns over Houthis Targeting Merchant Ships in Red Sea

Defense News ,India :-  Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar expressed his concerns on Tuesday regarding the targeting of merchant ships in the Red Sea by Houthis using drones and missiles, particularly those belonging to Israel, the US, or the UK. Describing the situation as "not very good," Admiral Kumar attributed the activities in the Red Sea to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

During the inauguration of the new Administrative building of Naval War College near Panaji, the Admiral stated that the Indian Navy is actively providing necessary protection primarily to India-flagged ships and extending assistance to other vessels seeking help in the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean Region.

Admiral Kumar emphasized the Indian Navy's commitment to supporting all merchant ships engaged in travel between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean Region. He highlighted the focus on India-flagged vessels but affirmed their willingness to assist any ship seeking their help.

The Naval chief conveyed a stern message to attackers, asserting that the Indian Navy will not tolerate acts that jeopardize the safety of the Indian Ocean. He revealed that the Houthis have been targeting merchant ships, predominantly those belonging to Israel, the US, or the UK, or under Israeli ownership. The Navy has been actively escorting its own ships, and while some vessels suffered damage, there has been no loss of life.

Admiral Kumar characterized the Red Sea situation as an example of how conflicts in one part of the world can spill over into another. He highlighted the use of asymmetric forces attempting to disrupt trade and involve the international community.

The ongoing Red Sea crisis involves a military standoff where Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen launched a barrage of missiles and armed drones at Israel, sparking heightened tensions in the region.