Suspected U.S. Airstrikes Intensify Against Houthi-Controlled Yemen
Suspected U.S. airstrikes have targeted Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen, particularly affecting Sanaa and its surroundings. This campaign marks a significant escalation and is perceived as broader than previous operations. Initial reports indicate civilian casualties and a potential disruption of communication networks. The strikes are a response to Houthi threats regarding Israeli vessels amid ongoing economic strife and a fluctuating humanitarian situation in Yemen.
Suspected U.S. airstrikes have recently targeted areas in Yemen controlled by the Houthi rebels, including multiple neighborhoods within the capital, Sanaa. These strikes occurred early on a Friday, marking a significant escalation in intensity compared to previous operations, which began on March 15. The extent of injuries and damages is currently unclear.
Reports indicate that this latest military operation under President Donald Trump may be broader in scope than those conducted during President Joe Biden’s administration. The U.S. is shifting its focus from merely striking launch sites to targeting high-ranking officials and striking in urban areas.
Initial accounts from the Houthis reported at least seven injuries in the attacks within Sanaa, which has been under their control since 2014. Other targeted locations include the strategic Red Sea port city of Hodeida and the Houthi stronghold of Saada, as well as several other governorates in Yemen.
The Houthis have not specified the targets of the airstrikes apart from Sanaa International Airport, which serves both civilian and military purposes. The neighborhoods affected also contain critical military and intelligence sites alongside civilian residents.
Video footage revealed a bomb impacting Sanaa, accompanied by a large smoke plume visible in the night sky, coinciding with the observance of Ramadan. Further strikes occurred in the mountainous areas north of Sanaa, particularly in Amran, where various military installations are located. Their media claimed that several communication networks were disrupted due to the strikes, with a total of 19 interventions reported in that region alone.
The U.S. Central Command has not confirmed the airstrikes despite having received authorization from the White House for offensive operations in Yemen without prior approval. Previously under the Biden administration, the command shared details on individual strikes, a practice that has not continued in the current campaign.
These new airstrikes were initiated as a response to Houthi threats aimed at targeting “Israeli” ships in light of reported aid blockages to Gaza. The Houthis have previously extended their definition of these ships, suggesting potential risks for various vessels.
Previously, the Houthis engaged over 100 merchant ships with missiles and drones, resulting in select vessels being sunk and the loss of four sailors. They also targeted American naval vessels, although there have been no successful strikes against them thus far.
The upsurge in hostilities has drawn heightened attention to the Houthis as they confront economic strife at home and intensify crackdowns against dissenters and aid workers amid Yemen’s enduring war, which has devastated the nation, known as the poorest in the Arab world.
In conclusion, the recent suspected U.S. airstrikes against Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen signify a notable escalation in military operations. This shift reflects a broader strategy to target high-value personnel and urban locations. The humanitarian implications remain concerning, with rising casualties among civilians violating international norms. As the conflict rages on, the situation demands urgent attention from the global community.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
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