A New War Or An Extension Of The Ongoing Middle East Tensions? (VIDEO)

Brigadier Hemant Mahajan in Conversation with Afrida Rahman Ali

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, the conflict between the United States and Iran-backed Houthi rebels has intensified. With fresh airstrikes launched by the US and retaliatory threats from the Houthis, the region is on edge.

In an exclusive interview with Afrida Rahman Ali, Executive Editor of Free Press Journal, defense and foreign affairs expert Brigadier Hemant Mahajan sheds light on the evolving situation, the military strategies involved, and the broader geopolitical implications.

Afrida Rahman Ali (ARA): Brigadier Mahajan, is this a new war or simply an extension of the existing conflict?

Brigadier Hemant Mahajan (BHM): This is not a new war; it is a continuation of the larger conflict involving Iran and its proxies. The Israel-Hamas war is one front, but there are multiple players, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. The Houthis initially targeted Israeli vessels in the Red Sea in solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza. However, their attacks have now expanded, impacting global shipping and drawing a direct response from the US.

ARA: What prompted the US to launch these airstrikes?

BHM: The Houthis have been attacking commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea, one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors. The US decided to act militarily to deter further attacks and ensure the safety of trade routes. However, this escalation raises the stakes, and both sides are now engaged in a show of strength.

ARA: How does the disruption in the Red Sea affect global trade?

BHM: The Red Sea is a crucial trade route connecting Asia to Europe via the Suez Canal. With merchant vessels being targeted, shipping companies are rerouting their vessels via the Cape of Good Hope, significantly increasing travel time and costs by 30-40%. This directly impacts global supply chains, making trade more expensive.

ARA: Can the US Navy effectively provide security to thousands of ships passing through this region?

BHM: Not realistically. Providing air defense to thousands of merchant ships is an enormous challenge. Escorting a few vessels is possible, but ensuring the safety of an entire trade corridor is highly complex and costly. The US has deployed warships, but the Houthis continue their attacks, showing the limitations of military protection in such a vast area.

ARA: The Houthis have threatened large-scale airstrikes. How credible is this threat?

BHM: The Houthis have access to ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones—many of which come from Iran. While US warships are equipped with advanced air defense systems, the real threat is to commercial vessels. Drones, in particular, are a cheaper and highly effective weapon, especially when used in large numbers (swarm attacks). The Houthis may not match the US militarily, but their asymmetric warfare tactics can still cause significant disruptions.

ARA: Israel recently resumed its military operations against Hamas. Could this be fueling Houthi aggression?

BHM: Absolutely. The Houthis see themselves as part of Iran’s broader resistance alliance against Israel and the US. When Israel halted humanitarian aid to Gaza, the Houthis announced they would resume attacks on Israeli-linked vessels. This interconnection between conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Yemen is making the Middle East more volatile.

ARA: How does Iran fit into this picture?

BHM: Iran is the key backer of the Houthis, Hamas, and Hezbollah. The US strikes on the Houthis are not just about securing the Red Sea but also sending a strong message to Iran. By targeting Iranian proxies, the US is pressuring Tehran, possibly in an attempt to push them toward resuming nuclear deal negotiations.

ARA: With Donald Trump back in office, how do you see US policy evolving?

BHM: Trump is known for his unconventional yet effective strategies. His administration pressured European allies to increase defense spending, took a tough stance on trade with China, and enforced stricter border controls. If he follows the same aggressive approach, we might see increased US military action in the Middle East, especially against Iran-backed groups. However, whether this will lead to long-term stability or further escalation remains to be seen.

ARA: What’s the road ahead? Is there any possibility of de-escalation?

BHM: De-escalation is challenging because multiple conflicts are intertwined. The Houthis will continue attacking ships as long as the Gaza conflict persists. The US will retaliate to protect its interests, and Iran will continue supporting its proxies. Diplomacy remains the best option, but at this moment, military engagements seem to be taking precedence.

ARA: Final thoughts—who stands to gain or lose the most in this conflict?

BHM: The biggest losers are global trade and regional stability. Shipping disruptions hurt economies worldwide. Militarily, the US remains dominant, but the Houthis have succeeded in causing significant disruptions. Iran, by supporting these proxies, is playing a dangerous game. If tensions keep escalating, we might see more direct confrontations between major powers.

ARA: Thank you, Brigadier Mahajan, for your valuable insights.