The Intelligence from The Economist The Intelligence: Red (Sea) alert
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Dec 18, 2023 
Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor and expert in geopolitical conflicts, discusses the rising threat of Iran-backed Houthi militants targeting vessels in the Red Sea, which could disrupt global trade significantly. He also addresses alarming trends among young Americans who doubt the Holocaust's occurrence, influenced by educational gaps and social media. Additionally, the conversation touches on how museums are navigating the evolving art landscape by incorporating NFTs, balancing innovation with tradition.
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New Suez Crisis Threatens Global Trade
- The Suez Canal, a crucial global shipping route, faces a new crisis impacting world trade.
- This evokes the 1956 Suez Crisis, highlighting the canal's historical significance in geopolitical conflicts.
Houthi Attacks Disrupt Red Sea Shipping
- Houthi militants, backed by Iran, escalate attacks on ships in the Red Sea, disrupting major shipping lines.
- One attack involved a ballistic missile hitting a ship, a novel tactic in naval warfare.
Iran's Indirect Pressure on Israel
- The Houthi attacks, while claiming to support Palestinians, target ships regardless of their destination or ownership.
- Iran supports the Houthis' campaign to pressure Israel without direct conflict.