Experts Warn Against Reliance on Airstrikes Alone to Defeat Houthis in Yemen
Experts argue that defeating the Houthi militia in Yemen requires more than airstrikes, noting that U.S. efforts to curb their attacks may fall short. A leaked discussion from the Trump administration indicated aims to secure shipping lanes in the Red Sea, but analysts believe air power alone cannot secure victory. Historical precedence suggests that comprehensive strategies, including potential land invasions, may be needed to effectively confront the Houthis.
Experts contend that defeating the Houthi militia in Yemen necessitates more than airstrikes. U.S. officials aim to limit Houthi assaults on vessels in the Red Sea, yet analysts highlight that aerial bombardment alone proved ineffective in deterring the group during the Biden administration. There is a consensus that air power will not suffice in subduing the Houthis.
Notably, a recent leak involving Trump administration officials revealed intentions regarding airstrikes against the Houthis aimed at safeguarding critical shipping lanes. These strikes are designed to prevent the militia from disrupting commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Michael Waltz, an advisor in Trump’s administration, indicated, “Whether it’s now or several weeks from now, it will have to be the United States that reopens these shipping lanes.”
Despite President Trump’s aspirations, experts suggest that airstrikes may not yield the desired outcomes. Historical precedents show that few military victories are achieved solely through air power. The largest shipping firms remain hesitant to resume operations in the Red Sea, as alternative routes have become more favorable, albeit less efficient and more costly.
James R. Holmes, a strategic expert from the Naval War College, underscored the necessity of a land invasion to achieve definitive results in past conflicts, asserting that the situation with the Houthis may similarly require extensive ground engagement. This points to the complexity of achieving stability in Yemen.
In conclusion, the ongoing struggle against the Houthi militia in Yemen underscores the limitations of air power as a standalone strategy. As U.S. officials grapple with the implications of their military actions, experts recognize the need for a multifaceted approach that, potentially, includes ground forces. Acknowledging historical patterns reveals the difficulty of overcoming entrenched militant groups without comprehensive military engagement.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
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