Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas

Following the recent ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, analysts suggest that prolonged peace could encourage Saudi Arabia and other Arab nations to engage diplomatically with Israel, given its military significance in the region. Meanwhile, the leader of Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis has stated that their group will monitor the ceasefire and will resume attacks if it is violated, indicating their continued involvement in regional tensions. Since November 2023, the Houthis have targeted shipping in the Red Sea, disrupting international commerce and raising global shipping costs. In response to their maritime aggression, the United States and Britain have initiated a multinational operation to protect trade routes, with the EU launching its own mission to deter Houthi attacks. As shipping companies await clarity on the situation, the potential for a return to normalcy in Red Sea traffic remains uncertain, hinging on the Houthis' next moves. Overall, the ceasefire presents a pivotal moment that could influence wider geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.