Navy Prepares Deployment to Red Sea, Backing International Initiative
January 09, Colombo (LNW): Upon President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s directive, the Sri Lanka Navy is gearing up to dispatch ships to the Red Sea and adjoining waters. This move aligns with Operation Prosperity Guardian, spearheaded by the US, targeting the containment of Houthi rebel activities in Yemen.
Captain Gayan Wickramasuriya, spokesperson for the Sri Lanka Navy, affirmed the preparations for this deployment in support of Operation Prosperity Guardian. Although the specific deployment date remains undisclosed, Captain Wickramasuriya confirmed ongoing arrangements for the naval vessels’ readiness in the Red Sea.
Operation Prosperity Guardian extends beyond the Red Sea, encompassing the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. India has already contributed six warships to this multinational initiative.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, speaking in Colombo on January 3rd, publicly disclosed Sri Lanka’s commitment to join global endeavors against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. He announced the imminent deployment of a Sri Lanka Navy ship to the Red Sea, prompting the Navy to initiate preparations for this mission.
The Houthi rebels, advocating for an end to Israeli attacks on Palestine, have conducted drone and missile strikes on ships navigating the Red Sea. This aggressive activity has compelled vessels to seek alternative routes, circumnavigating Africa and resulting in a crisis within the commercial shipping sector.
To counter these disruptions and uphold maritime security, international collaboration has become imperative, prompting nations like Sri Lanka to contribute to efforts aimed at restoring stability in these crucial waterways.
