Tensions shimmer in Red Sea as Yemen-backed Houthis continue to attack commercial ships, affecting int’l trade. Houthi rebels launched 18 drones over the 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. Amid affecting int’l trade channel, US Secy of State Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation with EAM Jaishankar. Both leaders discussed recent attacks on merchant ships by Houthis in the Red Sea, informed State Dept spox Matthew Miller. Blinken emphasised that the Red Sea is a major commercial corridor that welcomed increased cooperation with India. Taking to X, EAM S Jaishankar informed about his insightful discussions with his “friend” Antony Blinken. Hailing India-US ties, he said that both countries will look forward to realising their extensive cooperation agenda for 2024. The US Secretary and EAM also discussed the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, efforts to prevent the escalation.