Houthis Report US Airstrikes in Yemen Amid Ongoing Military Offensive
Houthi media reported at least 17 US airstrikes in Yemen, attributing damage to citizen property. The US launched a military offensive on March 15, resulting in casualties among Houthi leaders. The Houthis have since threatened renewed maritime attacks amid escalating tensions with the US and Israel.
Houthi media outlets in Yemen reported on Wednesday that at least 17 airstrikes occurred in the regions of Saada and Amran, attributing responsibility to the United States. Their Ansarollah website described these as “aggressive air raids,” resulting in damage to citizens’ property, although specific casualty figures were not disclosed.
On March 15, the United States announced a military offensive against the Iranian-backed Houthis, vowing to employ overwhelming force until the group ceased its assaults on vessels in critical shipping corridors of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Following this announcement, a series of airstrikes were executed, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of senior Houthi officials. According to the Houthi health ministry, these strikes led to 53 fatalities on their side.
Since the initiation of this offensive, Houthi-controlled territories in Yemen have experienced nearly daily strikes attributed to the United States. The Houthis have also declared their intention to target US military vessels and Israeli interests. The group commenced its attacks on shipping vessels following the onset of the Gaza war, citing solidarity with the Palestinians, though they temporarily halted these operations following a January ceasefire.
Recently, the Houthis have issued threats to resume attacks on this critical maritime route, particularly in response to Israel’s blockade on humanitarian aid to Palestinians. This situation catalyzed the first US military strikes in Yemen since the commencement of President Donald Trump’s administration. Last week, President Trump issued a stark warning to the Houthis, declaring, “I will annihilate you,” while also cautioning Iran against its ongoing support for the group.
In summary, the Houthis have reported extensive airstrikes in Yemen attributed to US forces, which are part of a broader military offensive declared by Washington against the Iranian-backed group. With tensions escalating in the region, marked by threats from the Houthis to resume attacks and strong statements from the US administration, the situation remains precarious and requires ongoing monitoring.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
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