President Trump Orders Airstrikes on Houthi Rebels in Yemen, Warns Iran
President Donald Trump has ordered airstrikes against Houthi-held areas in Yemen, targeting their bases to safeguard maritime shipping. He warned Iran to cease support for the Houthis and indicated accountability for its proxy’s actions. The Houthis reported significant casualties, and officials suggest the strikes will continue in response to ongoing threats to commercial navigation.
On March 15, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump authorized airstrikes against Houthi-held regions in Yemen, vowing to employ “overwhelming lethal force” to halt attacks on maritime shipping. The Houthis reported at least 31 casualties as a result of the strikes. Trump emphasized the importance of protecting American shipping and maintaining navigational freedom in his announcement via social media.
Moreover, President Trump cautioned Iran against its support for the Houthis, indicating that the nation would be held “fully accountable” for the actions of the rebel group. This warning follows a letter he sent to Iranian leaders seeking a renewed dialogue regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
Initial reports from the Houthis indicated explosions in Sanaa and Saada following the airstrikes, with images capturing smoke rising over the Sanaa airport area, which hosts military facilities. Additional strikes were also reported across Hodeida, Bayda, and Marib, resulting in casualties including 18 killed and at least 24 injured according to Houthi health ministry data.
A U.S. official commented that these strikes mark the commencement of a sustained campaign against Houthi targets, while Houthi spokespersons declared their intent to retaliate against the U.S. They expressed defiance, asserting that Sanaa would continue to support Gaza amidst ongoing conflicts.
In recent weeks, the Houthis had threatened to attack Israeli vessels in retaliation for Israel’s blockade of Gaza, although no subsequent attacks were reported. Previous Houthi operations during the conflict with Israel and Hamas had involved targeting over 100 vessels, thus elevating their visibility despite domestic challenges in Yemen.
The airstrikes impacted residential areas in Sanaa, leading to panic among local populations. Residents described the sound of explosions akin to an earthquake. The Houthis also reported additional strikes in the Dhamar province during the same period. While the U.S. military was responsible for these operations, similar measures against the Houthis had also been executed during the Biden administration in response to their aggression towards international shipping.
The U.S. military assets involved included the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group, which was engaged in the operations in the Red Sea. President Trump announced the strikes while at his Trump International Golf Club in Florida, citing the economic burdens and risks associated with Houthi attacks on international navigation.
In conclusion, the recent U.S. airstrikes on Houthi strongholds in Yemen demonstrate President Trump’s commitment to countering threats to maritime safety and holding Iran responsible for its proxy actions. While the Houthis have expressed resilience and vowed retaliation, these developments indicate a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, which poses challenges for regional stability and international interests. The situation remains fluid, with potential repercussions on ongoing negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and the broader Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
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