U.S. Strikes in Yemen, Ecuador at War & U.S.-China Meet Before Tawain's Election

(1) U.S.-U.K. Lead Strikes Against Houthi in Yemen as Red Sea Transit Stalls

 The Importance: the U.S. has committed to continued military strikes against the Iranian-backed Houthi in Yemen to protect Red Sea trade. The efforts have created an open-ended conflict. U.S. strikes further reduced Red Sea shipping volumes in the short-term. What should supply chains expect? (click here for the full story)

The Scoop: A ‘complex’ Houthi attack on U.S. flagged vessels in the Red Sea gave President Biden the green light to begin long threatened strikes in Yemen. Strikes may not stop the Houthi or open shipping lanes. The Houthi continued their attacks earlier this week and vowed revenge. 95% of Red Sea bound containers are diverting around Africa. The impact is now spreading to petroleum tankers. 

(2) War Between Gangs and Government has Ecuador Under Martial Law

The Impacts: sustained violence will drive asylum seekers to U.S. borders; already hot button, more migration may drive divide, influence upcoming elections, and strain cities. Ecuador losing power to narco-state actors would fuel America’s tragic drug and overdose epidemic. (click for full story)

The Scoop: Ecuadorian President Noboa’s promise to fight narco-terror has him at war with 22 gangs quickly after taking office. Riots, a military vs. gang war, and gang on gang wars have followed the escape of the nation’s most powerful incarcerated narco-leader. Noboa has welcomed the U.S.’s pledged support.

(3) Chinese Military Leaders Visit Pentagon While Tawain Takes a Stand

The Importance: increased communication between U.S.-PLA military leaders reduces the likelihood of an accidental war. Tawain’s Presidential election is a blow to Beijing’s One China goals. U.S. and Chinese economic and military strategies drive further tensions. (click for full story) 

The Scoop: Chinese military leaders visited the Pentagon for the first time since COVID. Biden successfully re-established military dialogue at APEC in November. Tawain's Democratic Progressive Party’s wins its third consecutive presidential bid. Like Ukraine, Tawain appears willing to defend itself against invasion. China’s electric vehicle exports and 2023’s expansion of BRICS threatens U.S. economic interests. Each states’ rhetoric showcases their differing views towards current conflicts.