Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed two attacks on a U.S. carrier group following lethal strikes ordered by President Trump, who vowed continued military action against the rebels until they cease their assaults on maritime shipping. The Houthis announced plans for significant protests while international calls for diplomacy persist amidst the ongoing conflict.

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels of Yemen have claimed responsibility for two attacks on a U.S. aircraft carrier group within 24 hours, coinciding with significant protests planned for March 17, 2025, in response to recent U.S. airstrikes that reportedly resulted in 53 fatalities. These strikes targeted the Houthi-controlled capital, Sanaa, following their assaults on shipping in the Red Sea, which the U.S. has been actively addressing due to increased tensions from the Gaza conflict.

According to the Houthis, they retaliated by firing 18 missiles and a drone at the USS Harry S. Truman carrier group, showcasing their resolve amid escalating hostilities. Despite their claims, there has been no immediate response from U.S. officials regarding these alleged attacks. A spokesperson from the Houthis characterized the strikes as a direct response to ongoing American actions against Yemen.

President Donald Trump has made it clear that the U.S. will escalate its military responses until the Houthis cease their targeted attacks on shipping. This follows a strong warning from Mr. Trump, who stated that the U.S. would use “overwhelming lethal force” against the rebels. Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Huthi has called for significant public gatherings to commemorate the anniversary of the Battle of Badr, aiming to mobilize a large turnout in protest against U.S. actions.

The capital, Sanaa, was subjected to intense U.S. bombing shortly before the planned protests, resulting in casualties that included women and children. Eyewitness accounts describe the devastation from the strikes, emphasizing the fear experienced by local residents. These airstrikes are seen as the first substantial military engagement since President Trump assumed office earlier in the year, occurring despite a temporary halt in Houthi attacks during the Gaza ceasefire.

As tensions continue, the United Nations has urged for a cessation of hostilities from both parties, while China has advocated for diplomatic efforts to resolve the complex issues surrounding Yemen and the Red Sea. U.S. officials have reiterated that military actions will persist until the Houthi attacks cease, with threats also directed towards Iran in relation to its support for the Houthis.

The Houthis, perceived as having influence along vital maritime trade routes, have actively threatened increased aggression if provocation from the U.S. persists. U.S. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz disclosed that recent strikes targeted key Houthi leadership; however, no direct Houthi response has addressed these claims. Political dialogues continue to be complicated by ongoing military actions and the stalling of the peace process initiated in 2022, following prior ceasefires within the prolonged conflict.

The situation involving Yemen’s Houthi rebels and U.S. military actions continues to escalate, particularly following significant U.S. airstrikes that have left many casualties. The Houthis’ retaliatory claims of missile strikes on a U.S. aircraft carrier group highlight ongoing tensions. Both the U.S. and Houthis are resolved to engage militarily until an end to hostilities is achieved, while calls for diplomatic resolutions remain critical in addressing the underlying complexities of the conflict and the resulting security challenges in the Red Sea.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com

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