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Sophia Klein
US Military Operations Against Yemen’s Houthis: Causes and Consequences
The US has commenced a major military campaign against Yemen’s Houthis due to their attacks on Red Sea shipping, resulting in numerous casualties. The Houthis, a Shiite militia, have asserted their legitimacy by portraying themselves as defenders of Palestine and have a history of conflict with the US. President Trump has vowed to utilize overwhelming force, while Iran claims the Houthis operate independently. Concerns over humanitarian impacts have been raised by international officials.
The United States has initiated its most significant military operation in the Middle East against Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis since the onset of President Donald Trump’s tenure. This offensive was primarily prompted by the Houthis’ attacks on Red Sea shipping, which have resulted in at least 53 fatalities, including five children and two women. US officials indicate that this military campaign may continue for several weeks.
The Houthis, a Shiite Muslim rebel faction, seized Yemen’s capital, Sana’a, in 2014 and have since controlled significant parts of the country amidst a prolonged civil war. Their origins trace back to a religious revival movement established in the late 1990s by the Houthi family, aimed at restoring the Zaydi sect of Shiite Islam in northern Yemen, which had been marginalized over time.
The group claims its legitimacy stems from its portrayal as defenders of the Palestinians and adversaries of the United States. Dr. Sarah Phillips, a professor at the University of Sydney, notes that the Houthis’ emphasis on fighting external adversaries is a diversion from the domestic struggles faced by Yemenis.
The Houthis have recently engaged in naval operations supporting Palestine, threatening vessels they associate with Israel across multiple shipping routes, consequently disrupting international maritime activities and prompting US and British retaliatory air strikes to safeguard trade routes crucial to global commerce.
Following a brief cessation of hostilities during a Gaza ceasefire, the Houthis resumed attacks, compelling President Trump to authorize a series of air strikes targeting their strategic positions. He emphasized the need for decisive action to maintain navigational freedom for American vessels, while also warning Iran of accountability for supporting the Houthis.
Iranian leaders, however, assert that the Houthis operate independently, capable of making their own strategic choices. Dr. Phillips expresses skepticism regarding whether the Houthis will alter their tactics in response to US military actions, highlighting their resilience and long-standing experience in conflict.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged restraint and cessation of all military actions in Yemen, cautioning that escalation risks exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio corroborated this viewpoint, stressing that Iran’s backing of the Houthis positions them directly accountable for their maritime assaults.
In summary, the US has launched a significant military operation against Yemen’s Houthis largely in response to their aggressive actions impacting international shipping. The complexity of the Houthis’ legitimacy and their operational independence poses challenges for US objectives. With calls for restraint from both international authorities and US officials, the situation remains precarious and could further destabilize the region amidst ongoing humanitarian concerns.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
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