Exploring the history of protecting cargo ships, the podcast discusses the attack on a non-US ship by a militant group, the role of the US Navy in safeguarding non-US affiliated cargo ships, and the concept of freedom of the seas in global trade. It delves into the historical context of free movement of ships, the importance of freedom of navigation, and the ineffective response to Houthi attacks on cargo ships.
The US Navy plays a vital role in protecting commercial ships from attacks by militant groups like the Houthis in conflict zones, ensuring the safety of crew and minimal damage to vessels.
The concept of freedom of the seas, originating in the 17th century and solidified through international agreements and the power of navies like the US and Britain, has driven global trade and economic expansion.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Protecting Commercial Ships
The podcast discusses the challenges faced by commercial ship owners in protecting their vessels from attacks by militant groups like the Houthis. The episode focuses on an incident where a cargo ship owned by John's company, Genco, was attacked off the coast of Yemen. The crew had prepared for such attacks by implementing security measures and contacting the US Navy for assistance. The US Navy didn't offer a definitive assurance of protection but provided hotlines for emergencies. The crew's quick response and communication with the Navy ensured the safety of the crew and minimal damage to the ship. Despite efforts to maintain freedom of navigation, the episode highlights the ongoing threats faced by commercial ships in conflict zones.
The Origins of Freedom of the Seas
The podcast delves into the historical background behind the concept of freedom of the seas. It traces its origin to the 17th century when Dutch lawyer argued for the unrestricted navigation of Dutch ships across the world. The seas were previously dominated by powerful empires claiming exclusivity and imposing tribute payments to allow passage. The episode highlights how Thomas Jefferson's decision to defend American trade ships against Barbary pirates in the early 19th century marked a crucial turning point in establishing freedom of navigation. Through subsequent international agreements and the power of navies like the US and Britain, the idea of free movement of ships gained prominence, driving global trade and economic expansion.
Houthi Attacks and the Challenge to Freedom of Navigation
The podcast discusses the recent challenges to the established norm of freedom of navigation due to the attacks carried out by the Houthi militant group in the Red Sea. The Houthis, driven by their support for the Palestinian cause and seeking to resist perceived US imperialism, have targeted commercial ships passing through the narrow waterway near their controlled coastline. The podcast highlights how the Houthis thrive in wartime and capitalize on the opportunity to present themselves as underdogs in a global conflict. Despite the US and allied responses, including missile strikes, the Houthis continue their attacks, benefiting from increased support, recruitment, and funding at home. Their actions disrupt global trade and pose a significant challenge to maintaining freedom of navigation.
The Genco Picardy is not an American ship. It doesn't pay U.S. taxes, none of its crew are U.S. nationals, and when it sailed through the Red Sea last month, it wasn't carrying cargo to or from an American port.
But when the Houthis, a tribal militant group from Yemen, attacked the ship, the crew called the U.S. Navy. That same day, the Navy fired missiles at Houthi sites.
On today's show: How did protecting the safe passage of other countries' ships in the Red Sea become a job for the U.S. military? It goes back to an idea called Freedom of the Seas, an idea that started out as an abstract pipe dream when it was coined in the early 1600s – but has become a pillar of the global economy.
This episode was hosted by Alex Mayyasi and Nick Fountain. It was produced by Sam Yellowhorse Kesler, edited by Molly Messick, fact-checked by Sierra Juarez, and engineered by Valentina Rodríguez Sánchez, with help from Maggie Luthar. Alex Goldmark is Planet Money's executive producer.