Houthi Casualties Rise as U.S. Airstrikes Target Yemen Rebels
The Houthi Health Ministry reports a death toll of 31 from U.S. airstrikes in Yemen, including women and children. President Trump ordered the strikes to deter Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from attacking maritime routes. The conflict continues to pose significant humanitarian challenges, with the Houthis declaring their intent to retaliate.
The Houthi-run Health Ministry in Yemen reports that the death toll from recent U.S. airstrikes has risen to 31, including women and children, with an additional 101 wounded. Anees al-Asbahi, a spokesperson for the ministry, confirmed these figures on Sunday, indicating the severity of the attacks.
President Donald Trump declared that he ordered the airstrikes on Houthi-controlled regions to discourage Iranian-backed rebels from threatening maritime shipping routes. He emphasized using “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis cease their attacks. The President’s statement asserted the need to protect U.S. assets and ensure free navigation in international waters.
The Houthis reported multiple explosions in their territories, notably Sanaa, and the northern province of Saada. Casualty reports from the Houthi-run health ministry indicate at least 18 civilians were killed, including 13 in Sanaa. These strikes seem to be part of a broader campaign against Houthi targets by the U.S.
U.S. officials conveyed that these airstrikes represent a continuation of military action against Houthi forces, emphasizing an ongoing commitment to counter threats in the region. Nasruddin Amer from the Houthi media office proclaimed resilience against U.S. attacks, vowing to retaliate. Another spokesperson criticized the narrative that the Houthis pose a threat to shipping, calling it misleading.
Notably, these airstrikes coincide with threats from the Houthis to resume assaults on Israeli vessels due to ongoing tensions surrounding Gaza. The Houthis’ increased military activity has raised their visibility amid Yemen’s protracted conflict.
Local reports suggest that the recent airstrikes targeted residential areas in Sanaa’s Shouab district, causing significant panic among civilians. Abdallah al-Alffi, a resident, described the explosions as “very strong,” likening them to an earthquake, highlighting the impact on the densely populated area.
The strikes are significant as they represent the first military action against the Houthis since Trump resumed office, marking a critical phase in U.S. engagement in the decades-long Yemeni conflict. U.S. naval assets, including the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group, were involved in these operations, underscoring the strategic military presence in the region. Trump reiterated the economic implications of Houthi actions, asserting that these assaults have adversely impacted global economies and put lives at risk.
In summary, the increase in the death toll from U.S. airstrikes on Houthi-held areas in Yemen underscores the ongoing conflict and its humanitarian impacts. President Trump has committed to decisive military action against Houthi forces, citing threats to international shipping. The Houthis have vowed to retaliate, further escalating tensions in the region. As the situation develops, it remains crucial to monitor its implications on Yemen and broader international relations.
Original Source: www.nsnews.com
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