美国掐断中国航线？为什么说红海护航，是美元霸权的最后一搏？

Core Viewpoint - The recent missile attacks in the Red Sea, linked to the Houthi movement's support for Hamas, have created significant disruptions in global shipping, raising concerns about the strategic implications for international trade and the U.S. dollar's dominance [5][8][12]. Group 1: Incident Overview - On January 2, 2024, two missiles exploded over the Red Sea, causing chaos in global shipping routes [5][8]. - The Houthi movement, which has been active in Yemen since 2004, has escalated its military actions, now targeting shipping routes to support Hamas against Israel [8][10]. - The Red Sea is a critical shipping lane, with nearly one-third of global container traffic and over ten percent of oil passing through, making it vital for international trade [12]. Group 2: Economic Impact - The missile attacks have led to increased shipping costs as vessels reroute around the Cape of Good Hope to avoid the Red Sea, resulting in skyrocketing freight prices [12][20]. - Insurance costs for shipping in the Red Sea have surged dramatically, contributing to the halt of Chinese shipping routes in the region [20][22]. - The rising insurance fees are seen as a significant factor in the disruption of trade, with implications for global supply chains [20][24]. Group 3: Geopolitical Dynamics - The U.S. has responded to the situation by forming a coalition with 12 countries to address the threat posed by the Houthis, indicating a collective concern over the stability of the Red Sea [15][17]. - The U.S. aims to counter the Houthi actions, which are perceived as a threat not only to Israel but also to global shipping interests, including those of China [17][19]. - There are speculations that the U.S. may be leveraging the situation to undermine China's shipping capabilities, reflecting broader geopolitical strategies [24][26]. Group 4: Financial Implications - The turmoil in the Red Sea is viewed as a critical moment for the U.S. dollar, which is at risk of losing its status as the world's dominant currency if the situation escalates [28][30]. - The U.S. intervention in the Red Sea is seen as a strategy to maintain its economic influence and protect the dollar's position in global trade [30].