Australia to lead Red Sea operation to protect shipping corridors from Houthi attacks

Australia will take command of an international task force operating in the Red Sea amid the ongoing threat of attacks from Houthi rebels from Yemen.

From October, the Australian Defence Force will take command of the Combined Maritime Force’s Combined Task Force (CTF) 153 in a six-month operation, which aims to protect the pivotal global trade route.

Australia will continue to support the United Kingdom and United States in their defensive operation against Houthi rebels as part of the seven-personel Operation Hydranth, which was formed in February 2024.

Joint Operations chief Vice Admiral Justin Jones said Friday’s announcement was a “significant milestone in our commitment to maritime safety and security”.

“We proudly work alongside 44 other member nations in the Combined Maritime Force to support freedom of navigation and free, fair and open trade, and the international rules‑based order.

“This role demonstrates Australia’s commitment to international rules, and complements our separate deployment under Operation Hydranth.”

Australia’s command of the CTF comes after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was criticised for its slow-response in sending warships to protect the area.

After initially rejecting a request from the US navy in December, Australia boosted the numbers of Australian Defence Force personnel to 16 in January.

The anti-Israel, Shia Islamist political and military operation have claimed responsibility for multiple attacks in the area, with the rebel outfit targeting Israel in October last year.

Backed by Iran, the rebels have targeted shipping operations