According to the US, more than 20 countries have so far agreed to join the military alliance to protect ships in the Red Sea from attacks by Houthi rebels. Since the announcement of “Operation Guardian of Prosperity,” Australia and Greece have also announced their participation, Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder said at a press conference yesterday (local time). He emphasized that the alliance is open to other countries.
However, it is up to them to speak publicly about their participation. The crucial point is that this is an international problem that requires an international response. In some cases participation will include ships. In other cases, it may be staffing or other types of support.
Drone and missile attacks
The Houthi rebels, backed by Israel's archenemy Iran, have been attacking Israel with drones and missiles since the start of the war in Gaza and attacking ships in the Red Sea to prevent them from crossing into Israel. Large shipping companies increasingly avoid the route that crosses the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, through which around ten percent of all world trade passes.
According to information from the USA, the United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and the Seychelles also participate in the alliance. Germany is considering participation. Spain says it only wants to participate in an EU or NATO mission.