The United States has announced the launch of a special operation called "Guardian of Prosperity" to protect shipping in the Red Sea. This was announced by Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin, the Pentagon press service reports.

"The Red Sea is a critical waterway and a major trade corridor that facilitates international trade. Countries that support the fundamental principle of freedom of navigation must come together to address the challenge posed by this non-state actor (Houthis)," Austin said.

The operation will be aimed at "ensuring international maritime security and capacity building in the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb and Gulf of Aden".

In addition to the Americans, Great Britain, Italy, Bahrain, Canada, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, and Spain will participate in operation "Guardian of Prosperity".

As a reminder, since November this year, Yemeni Houthis have been attacking merchant ships in the Red Sea, which are alleged to have ties to Israel. Two aircraft carrier strike groups of the US Navy are deployed in the area, but they are unable to control the situation.