Tensions simmer in Red Sea as Yemen-backed Houthis continue to attack commercial ships, affecting international trade. On January 10, Houthi rebels launched 18 drones over southern Red Sea, according to the US military’s Central Command, reported Al Jazeera. The Houthi rebels, who are an Iran-aligned group, started the strikes in retaliation for Israel’s Gaza conflict. Meanwhile, EAM Dr S Jaishankar on Jan 13 highlighted the ongoing challenges in Red Sea region. The External Affairs Minister raised concern over continuous missiles firing, causing damage to ships by Houthi rebels. Also, US carried out fresh strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen amid escalating tensions in Red Sea, CNN reported. These strikes followed a coordinated attack on approximately 30 Houthi locations the day before. Earlier, US Secy Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation with EAM Jaishankar on January 11. Both leaders discussed recent attacks on merchant ships by Houthis in the Red Sea, informed State Dept spox Matthew Miller.