PHILADELPHIA, PA – March 12, 2025 – The Middle East Forum (MEF) announces the launch of the Red Sea Security Initiative (RSSI), a strategic effort to combat Houthi terrorist aggression and safeguard one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors.
The RSSI comes at a critical juncture, as the Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi announced today, March 12, a naval blockade against all Israeli ships traveling in or around the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This is just the latest act of aggression in an ongoing campaign of Houthi attacks that have disrupted global trade, endangered energy supplies, and escalated regional instability. RSSI aims to mobilize U.S. policymakers, global shipping leaders, and international stakeholders to develop a coordinated and lasting security framework to address this vital issue.
“Decisive action is needed to neutralize the growing maritime threat posed by the Houthis,” said RSSI director Eric Navarro. “The Red Sea Security Initiative will drive policy advocacy, private-sector engagement, and public awareness to ensure global trade remains secure and uninterrupted.”
RSSI Strategic Objectives:
- Engage U.S. Policymakers – Advocate for increased maritime security funding, targeted sanctions on Iranian facilitators, and expanded U.S. Navy capabilities.
- Mobilize Global Shipping Stakeholders – Strengthen public-private partnerships to deploy defensive technologies and secure commercial shipping routes.
- Drive Public Awareness – Launch media campaigns, op-eds, and strategic communications to highlight the urgency of countering Houthi aggression.
With decades of experience shaping U.S. policy, fostering policy collaboration, and executing high-impact media campaigns, the Middle East Forum is uniquely positioned to lead this initiative. By aligning political, economic, and security interests, RSSI will restore stability to the Red Sea, protect global trade, and counter Iranian proxy warfare.
