Ensuring Maritime Security: Against Houthi rebels in the Red Sea

 

Ensuring Maritime Security: The recent interference by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, disrupting shipping traffic, serves as a stark reminder of the susceptibility of global maritime trade. This disruption led to a surge in oil prices on Monday afternoon, underlining the geopolitical risks associated with shipping lanes. Major shipping companies refrained from using the Bab el-Mandeb strait in response to the Houthi attacks over the past four days, causing repercussions worldwide.

 

The Significance of Maritime Trade: The majority of global merchandise trade relies heavily on shipping, constituting approximately 80% of world trade by volume, according to estimates by Unctad. For India, this dependence is even more pronounced, with shipping accounting for 95% of its merchandise trade.

 

Chokepoints in the Indian Ocean: While oceans cover 97% of the Earth's water bodies, a handful of straits in the Indian Ocean play a pivotal role in maritime trade. The straits of Malacca, Hormuz, and Bab el-Mandeb are crucial chokepoints through which nearly 40% of the world's oil production flows. Unfortunately, these chokepoints are susceptible to threats from various non-state actors, posing a risk to global trade.

 

Persistent Threat of Piracy: Political instability in regions surrounding these straits has historically given rise to piracy as a disruptive force. Somali pirates operating in the Red Sea and the Mozambique Channel have posed a significant threat, prompting the UN Security Council to adopt resolutions, albeit with limited effectiveness.

 

Ongoing Piracy Challenges: Despite efforts to combat piracy, the International Maritime Bureau reports a 10% increase in incidents from January to September 2023. Pirates have successfully boarded 89% of targeted vessels, with the Singapore Straits being particularly vulnerable.

 

South China Sea Concerns: Beyond non-state actors, potential disruptions in the South China Sea, a vital link between the western Pacific and the Indian Ocean, raise concerns. China's maritime claims in this region could impact this critical shipping route, further emphasizing the need for global attention to maritime security.

 

India's Role and Challenges: India actively deploys its navy to protect merchant vessels, contributing significantly to global seafaring. However, Indian seafarers often fall victim to pirate attacks. The Indian government and states should provide increased institutional support, with a focus on the National Welfare Board for Seafarers, to enhance the safety and well-being of these essential contributors to global maritime trade.