Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for two attacks on a U.S. aircraft carrier group, stating these were in retaliation for U.S. strikes that killed numerous civilians. The conflict escalated tensions in the Red Sea, prompting a call for both sides to cease military activities. The situation has serious implications for maritime trade and regional stability, with the Houthis warning of potential further actions against U.S. aggression.

On Monday, Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for two attacks on a U.S. aircraft carrier group within a span of 24 hours, asserting that these strikes were retaliation for recent U.S. military actions. Initially, the Houthis reported launching 18 missiles and a drone targeting the USS Harry Truman and its accompanying vessels in the Red Sea, later announcing a second wave of attacks.

The United States has not provided immediate comments regarding these claims. A Houthi spokesperson stated that these attacks were a response to what they describe as ongoing American aggression in Yemen. They further indicated that Washington’s military strikes would provoke continued retaliation unless hostilities ceased.

According to the Houthi health ministry, the repercussions of U.S. strikes on Saturday resulted in the deaths of at least 53 individuals, many of whom were women and children, along with 98 injuries. The situation escalated, with reports of explosions in Hodeida targeting both a cotton ginning facility and an Israeli vessel that had been under Houthi control for over a year.

Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Huthi openly called for public demonstrations against these U.S. actions. The United Nations has appealed for a cessation of hostilities from both parties involved in this conflict, which has a significant impact on maritime trade routes in the Red Sea.

Since the recent hostilities began, the Houthi attacks on shipping have resumed after a significant lull. The group attributes this resurgence to the halting of humanitarian aid to Gaza by Israel and threatens further escalations if what they perceive as American hostilities persist.

U.S. strikes targeting Houthi leaders on Saturday marked a notable resumption of strikes since former President Trump returned to office. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz confirmed that these operations were executed to dismantle Houthi leadership. President Trump has issued stern warnings, cautioning the Houthis of dire consequences if attacks continue.

Eyewitness accounts from Sana’a describe devastating explosions that dramatically affected residential areas, with one resident claiming never to have experienced such fear before. The destruction was substantiated by footage from Houthi outlets showing the aftermath, including injured civilians.

Iran’s Foreign Minister criticized U.S. actions, asserting that America lacks the authority to dictate Iran’s international policies. The Houthis stated their readiness to escalate their military actions in response to ongoing provocations. A recent analysis revealed a rising number of Houthi attacks against vessels since October 2023, disrupting maritime trade, which generally comprises a significant portion of global shipping traffic.

Despite the long-standing conflict in Yemen, where humanitarian crises have been exacerbated by ongoing warfare, the Houthi group continues to emphasize their military capabilities in the region. The geopolitical tensions surrounding this area involve intricate dynamics not only between the Houthis, the U.S., and Israel, but also with Iran, which has pledged support to its allies in Yemen.

The recent claims of attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels against a U.S. aircraft carrier mark a significant escalation in ongoing military tensions. Despite warnings from both sides, the Houthis have stated their determination to continue retaliatory actions against perceived aggressions. The situation underscores complex regional dynamics, calling for immediate international attention to prevent further humanitarian crises and protect vital maritime trade routes.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com

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