Biden administration concerned about Houthis causing environmental catastrophe
The Biden Administration Expresses Concern Over Environmental Fallout from Iranian-Backed Houthi Attacks
The Biden administration has recently voiced its concerns regarding the environmental consequences of terrorist attacks carried out by Iranian-backed Houthi militants in the Arabian Peninsula.
This statement comes as the Islamic extremist group has launched numerous attacks on merchant ships in the past few months, resulting in disruptions to shipping lanes in the Red Sea.
These disruptions have forced ships to reroute their journeys around the southern tip of Africa, leading to extended voyages and increased fuel costs. As a result, supply chains have been disrupted, contributing to inflation.
One of the most severe attacks conducted by the Houthis was against the M/V Rubymar, a Belize-flagged, UK-owned bulk carrier, while it was passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
According to U.S. Central Command, the ship is currently anchored but slowly taking on water as a result of the attack. Photos of the vessel indicate that it is on the verge of sinking, potentially becoming the first ship sunk by the Houthis during the ongoing conflict.
Click here to view photos of the vessel.
Despite the significant threat these attacks pose to the global economy, the lives of those on board the ships, and the potential for the conflict to escalate into a regional war, the Biden administration has emphasized its concern for the environmental impact of these attacks.
The statement from the administration highlights the damage caused by the unprovoked and reckless attack, including an 18-mile oil slick. The M/V Rubymar was transporting over 41,000 tons of fertilizer, which could spill into the Red Sea, exacerbating the environmental disaster. The Houthis’ indiscriminate attacks continue to demonstrate their disregard for the regional impact, endangering the fishing industry, coastal communities, and food supplies.
On Feb. 18 between 9:30 p.m. and 10:40 p.m., Iran-backed Houthi terrorists attacked the M/V Rubymar, a Belize-flagged, UK-owned bulk carrier. The ship is anchored but slowly taking on water. The unprovoked and reckless attack by Iran-backed Houthi terrorists caused significant… pic.twitter.com/bU6j850wwG
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) February 24, 2024
What are the ecological and economic consequences of the fuel spill caused by the Houthi attacks on Socotra Island?
Is on the Yemeni island of Socotra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique biodiversity. The militants targeted a fuel tank in the island’s main port, causing a massive spill that has had devastating ecological and economic consequences.
The Biden administration has expressed deep concern over the environmental fallout of these attacks, highlighting the need for immediate action to address the ecological damage and prevent further destruction. In a statement, the administration emphasized the importance of safeguarding the world’s natural resources and protecting vulnerable ecosystems.
The environmental impact of the Houthi attacks extends beyond Yemen’s shores. The Red Sea, one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world, is a crucial lifeline for global commerce. The disruptions caused by these attacks have not only disrupted the flow of goods but also led to a significant increase in fuel costs. This, in turn, has put additional strain on already struggling economies and led to inflation in several countries.
The Biden administration has underscored the interconnectedness of the global community and the need for collective action to address this issue. It has called on international partners to condemn these attacks and work together to find a peaceful resolution. The administration has also stressed the importance of holding those responsible accountable for their actions.
Efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of the Houthi attacks are already underway. Yemeni authorities, with the support of international organizations, are working on containing the oil spill in Socotra and minimizing its impact on the fragile ecosystem. However, much more needs to be done to address the long-term consequences and prevent future attacks.
In addition to immediate action, the Biden administration is also exploring diplomatic avenues to engage with Iran and urge them to end their support for the Houthi militants. By addressing the root cause of these attacks, the administration hopes to bring about a lasting solution that will not only protect the environment but also promote stability and security in the Arabian Peninsula.
The environmental fallout from Iranian-backed Houthi attacks is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and collaborative efforts. The Biden administration’s expression of concern serves as a call to action for the international community to come together and find sustainable solutions. By addressing this issue, we can not only protect the environment but also ensure the prosperity and well-being of nations affected by these attacks.
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