Diplomacy 101: Undiplomatically Speaking
Where Beliefs Clash and Stories Flash
The Red Sea Calculus
Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea escalated this week, targeting vessels flagged by Western countries. In response, the U.S. and UK launched a series of joint airstrikes against Houthi military infrastructure, citing freedom of navigation under international law.
Iran condemned the strikes, while Russia and China called for de-escalation. Saudi Arabia maintained a cautious distance, avoiding direct support but increasing naval patrols in its territorial waters. The UN Security Council met in emergency session, but no resolution was passed due to familiar veto alignments.
Meanwhile, Egypt reported a 40% drop in Suez Canal revenues since December, underscoring the wider economic consequences of militarized choke points. Maritime insurers have hiked rates, prompting rerouting of cargo around the Cape of Good Hope—a move with significant global trade implications.