US Military Strikes Target Yemen’s Houthi Rebels Amid Maritime Tensions
The U.S. recently struck Houthi-held areas in Yemen, with President Trump pledging to use overwhelming force until the Iranian-backed rebels cease attacks on maritime commerce. The strikes were a direct response to Houthi threats against Israeli vessels and marked the first military action against the group in Trump’s second term. Casualties were reported among civilians, and Houthi representatives vowed retaliation.
On a recent Saturday, the United States conducted military strikes against areas held by the Houthi rebels in Yemen. President Donald Trump stated that he would utilize “overwhelming lethal force” until the Iranian-backed group ceases its assaults on maritime vessels and disrupts international shipping. He also issued a warning to Iran, emphasizing that the country would be held “fully accountable” for the actions of its proxies in the region.
President Trump detailed the military operations via social media, emphasizing the need to protect American shipping and restore navigational freedom. He asserted that there would be no tolerance for terrorist forces impeding the movement of American commercial and naval vessels. This announcement coincided with Trump’s stay at his golf club in Florida.
The Houthis have reported a series of explosions in their territories, specifically in the capital Sanaa and the stronghold of Saada, as well as multiple airstrikes early the following day in Hodeida, Bayda, and Marib provinces. According to Houthi sources, at least 31 individuals were reported killed and over 100 wounded, with casualties including women and children.
The catalyst for these strikes was the Houthis’ announcement of their intent to target Israeli vessels in retaliation for Israel’s blockade of Gaza. Despite not having attacked any vessels since their warning, the Houthis previously targeted numerous merchant ships, reportedly sinking two and resulting in the deaths of four sailors during their campaign.
The recent U.S. operation marks the first targeted strike against the Houthis under President Trump’s second administration and highlights a shift, as previous operations had included participation from Israeli and British forces. In response to the airstrikes, Houthi officials declared their resolve to retaliate against the United States, with claims from their spokesperson categorizing Trump’s assertions about the Houthis as unfounded and misleading.
In conclusion, the U.S. strikes on Houthi-held areas in Yemen underscore a renewed commitment by the Trump administration to counter the perceived threats posed by the Iran-backed group to maritime commerce. The attacks follow the Houthis’ threats against Israeli vessels and reflect a complex geopolitical landscape involving multiple actors. It remains to be seen how the Houthis will respond and the potential implications for U.S.-Iran relations moving forward.
Original Source: www.fox9.com
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