The only Muslim country to come out openly against the Houthis, announced to join the multinational force
US Defense Minister Austin has recently announced the formation of a multinational task force to protect ships in the Red Sea from attacks by Houthi rebels. There is not much enthusiasm among Arab countries regarding this ‘Operation Prosperity Guardian’ alliance announced by America. Many Arab countries have been facing the threat of Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea, but in view of the Gaza war, Muslim countries feel that Israel will benefit from the formation of this force. Involvement in which would create a wrong image for him, hence at least he is not supporting it publicly. On the contrary, Bahrain is openly standing with this task force.
The purpose of this coalition force of navies is to ensure the security of ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. There is participation from 20 countries, of which 12 have been publicly named. Which includes Bahrain, the only Arab country. Bahrain is the only Muslim country which is very clearly with this force. Even last week, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had announced the creation of this force from Manama, the capital of Bahrain. Other public partners in Operation Prosperity Guardian include Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, UK and the US.
Bahrain emphasizes on good relations with America
This is an important new multinational security initiative under the Task Force 153 command, which focuses on security in the Red Sea, Stinn said in a statement. Attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea region are a global threat, and joint forces led by the United States aim to enhance and maintain maritime navigation security. Its purpose is to ensure freedom of navigation for all countries and to strengthen regional security and prosperity.
However, after Austin’s announcement, no clear statement has been issued by Bahrain on this matter. Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa expressed pride in the historic ties and enduring partnership with the US, a statement from Bahrain’s news agency said. The foundation of which is based on decades of trust, mutual respect and joint coordination as partners and collaborators. Both countries are strengthening it further.
