'Experts are scared that terror risk has soared because of Yemen airstrikes'

14 January 2024 , 21:32

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Fears are mounting over further escalation in Yemen

It is surprising that David Cameron claims the RAF strikes in Yemen will not escalate the Middle East crisis, even though they were certainly necessary.

Most security experts behind the scenes are gravely concerned about the soaring risk of even bigger flare-ups in the Middle East but also the boosted risk of terrorism in the UK.

And this will almost certainly have been taken into account within the Ministry of Defence, MI5 and MI6 as they assess the possible aftermath.

Further strikes by American and UK warplanes, warships and submarines are likely.

The Houthis have shown little sign of backing down in their long-term aim to disrupt Red Sea shipping.

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A RAF Typhoon aircraft taking off to join the US-led coalition conducting air strikes against military targets in Yemen (PA)

Israel’s war on Hamas is pushing on as Hezbollah across its northern border remains a major threat as tens of thousands of fighters could still attack.

Much of the militant Islamist world, including Iran-backed Hezbollah, Hamas, the Houthis and others in the Middle East will use these strikes to further their call for jihad.

Western shipping and UK warships came under fire and the Houthis have been warned of reprisals. And Iran is watching developments carefully as this crisis moves towards the next stage which will unlikely be a de-escalation.

It is possible the escalation may go up a few more notches before reaching the point of no-return when all sides have to agree to stop or hurtle towards all-out war.

But it is also probable Tehran – whilst enjoying the trouble its proxies are causing – will not make a move as there is far too much at stake.

Chris Hughes