Kenya Teams Up with US, EU in Fight Against Houthi Rebels

In response to escalating threats from Yemen’s Houthi rebels and Somalia-based pirates, the United States and the European Union have selected Kenya to collaborate with Seychelles in prosecuting maritime suspects along the Indian Ocean.

The EU Naval Force highlighted Kenya’s new role in addressing the surge in maritime crimes along the coast, which threaten international trade. Spanish Ambassador to Kenya, Christina Diaz, emphasized the urgency of addressing attacks by Houthi rebels, a sentiment echoed by Italian Ambassador Roberto Natali. He noted that recent Houthi attacks have forced vessels to reroute through the Cape, significantly impacting shipping routes.

“Seychelles has been instrumental in handling maritime suspects, and now Kenya joins under a legal agreement with the EU to prosecute pirates captured by warships,” stated Natali.

Houthi rebels have caused significant disruption in Yemen, seizing northern territories and launching over 30 attacks on Red Sea shipping lanes. These actions have led to increased prices for agricultural products and basic goods.

EU Ambassador to Kenya Henriette Geiger confirmed that the EU’s maritime security operation, EU Navfor, will expand its mandate to combat narcotics, human trafficking, and other crimes. “Operation Atalanta will work with various governments to tackle emerging piracy threats and illegal activities in the Suez Canal region,” Geiger stated.

Armed forces from the US and UK, supported by Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, have conducted strikes against Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen to disrupt their capabilities and protect global trade and maritime safety.

“These strikes aim to degrade Houthi capabilities and protect global trade routes while avoiding escalation,” read a joint statement from the US and allied nations on January 24, 2024.