Daily Current Affairs : 21-December-2023
In response to escalating Houthi attacks on merchant shipping in the southern Red Sea, the United States has launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, a crucial naval protection initiative under the Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153). This essay explores the context, objectives, and key participants of this operation.
Background
The Houthi attacks, initially aimed at supporting Hamas in Gaza, have taken a more ominous turn by targeting merchant tankers navigating the strategically vital Bab el-Mandeb strait. Recognizing the threat posed by these attacks, Operation Prosperity Guardian seeks to ensure the safety and security of maritime activities in the region.
Objectives of Operation Prosperity Guardian
- Countering Houthi Threats: The primary goal of Operation Prosperity Guardian is to counteract and neutralize the Houthi threat to merchant shipping. This involves deploying an enhanced naval protection force equipped to respond effectively to any hostile actions.
- Enhanced Naval Presence: Through the participation of key allies, including the United Kingdom with HMS Diamond and three US destroyers, Operation Prosperity Guardian aims to establish a robust and coordinated naval presence in the southern Red Sea. This collaborative effort strengthens the overall capabilities of the operation.
Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153)
- Red Sea Maritime Security: CTF 153, led by the United States Navy, focuses specifically on Red Sea Maritime Security. Established in 2022, it operates as one of five task forces under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), reflecting a broader commitment to safeguarding maritime interests in critical regions.
Important Points:
- Operation Prosperity Guardian Overview:
- Launched in response to escalating Houthi attacks on merchant shipping in the southern Red Sea.
- Falls under the umbrella of Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153).
- Background of Houthi Attacks:
- Initially aimed at supporting Hamas in Gaza.
- Escalated to targeting merchant tankers in the strategically vital Bab el-Mandeb strait.
- Objectives of Operation Prosperity Guardian:
- Countering and neutralizing the Houthi threat to merchant shipping.
- Deployment of an enhanced naval protection force.
- Establishing an enhanced naval presence with the participation of key allies.
- Key Participants:
- United States Navy leading the operation.
- Participation from the United Kingdom, contributing HMS Diamond along with three US destroyers.
- Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153):
- Led by the United States Navy.
- Established in 2022 as part of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
- Focuses specifically on Red Sea Maritime Security.
Why In News
The US has introduced Operation Prosperity Guardian, an enhanced naval protection force in the southern Red Sea to counter Houthi attacks on merchant shipping under the Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153). This strategic initiative underscores the commitment to safeguarding vital maritime routes and ensuring the stability of the region.
MCQs about Operation Prosperity Guardian and CTF 153
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What is the primary focus of Operation Prosperity Guardian?
A. Counterterrorism
B. Countering Houthi threats to merchant shipping
C. Cybersecurity
D. Border control
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Which maritime passage is strategically significant and has been targeted by Houthi attacks?
A. Suez Canal
B. Strait of Hormuz
C. Bab el-Mandeb strait
D. Panama Canal
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Who leads the Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153)?
A. Royal Navy
B. United States Navy
C. Russian Navy
D. People’s Liberation Army Navy
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