Yemen’s Houthi rebels claim to have shot down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone amidst ongoing U.S. airstrikes targeting them. President Trump stated the campaign has severely diminished the rebel group’s capabilities. The military operations have expanded to target Houthi leadership directly, resulting in significant reported casualties. The conflict poses broader challenges to international navigation and stability.

On Tuesday, Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed to have downed another American MQ-9 Reaper drone amidst ongoing intense U.S. airstrikes aimed at the group. This incident reportedly occurred over the contested Marib governorate, coinciding with U.S. airstrikes around Sanaa, the Houthi-controlled capital, and Saada, their stronghold.

U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his stance against the Houthis and their ally, Iran, declaring that the group has suffered significant losses due to the current military operations that commenced on March 15. He emphasized that many Houthi fighters and leaders have been eliminated, and the ongoing strikes are dismantling their capabilities that threaten shipping and regional security.

Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, a spokesperson for the Houthis, stated that they targeted the drone with a locally manufactured missile. The rebels’ capability to down aircraft is supported by their possession of surface-to-air missiles, including the Iranian 358 missile. Despite Iran’s denial of supporting the Houthis with arms, evidence suggests that Iranian weaponry has been discovered in the conflict zone.

The U.S. military acknowledged awareness of the reported drone downing but refrained from providing additional comments. General Atomics Reapers are significant military assets, costing around $30 million, capable of high-altitude flights and extended missions. The Houthis claim to have brought down a total of 20 MQ-9 drones, with recent losses occurring amid escalating hostilities connected to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Reports indicate that Trump’s operation against the Houthis is broader compared to previous efforts, encompassing attacks not only on launch sites but also on senior personnel. The recent bombings, which the Houthis estimate have resulted in at least 61 fatalities, began after the Houthis threatened to resume attacks on vessels linked to Israel in retaliation for the blockade on Gaza.

The Houthis have been involved in various naval assaults, targeting over 100 merchant vessels, resulting in significant damage and casualties. Amid the protracted war, the Houthis have attempted to enhance their visibility while managing domestic dissent and economic challenges in a country ravaged by years of conflict.

The ongoing conflict in Yemen continues to escalate, with the Houthi rebels claiming to have successfully downed another U.S. drone amidst intensified American airstrikes. President Trump’s recent military strategy appears more aggressive than previous administrations, directly impacting Houthi leadership and capabilities. The conflict’s ramifications extend beyond Yemen, affecting international shipping and regional security, with increasing attacks on both commercial and military vessels.

Original Source: apnews.com

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