A U.S. military offensive in Yemen has resulted in 31 deaths and over 100 injuries as President Trump orders strikes against Houthi targets. The operation is in response to attacks on Israeli ships by the Houthis, amidst ongoing tensions linked to the Gaza blockade. U.S. officials assert the strikes are necessary for protecting international shipping and security in the region.
Recent U.S. military actions in Yemen have resulted in fatalities and injuries, with at least 31 reported dead and over 100 wounded following targeted strikes on Houthi positions. These strikes were initiated by President Donald Trump after the Houthis recommenced attacks on Israeli maritime vessels off the Yemeni coast as retaliation for the Israeli blockade on humanitarian aid to Gaza.
President Trump described the offensive as a “decisive and powerful” operation, emphasizing the urgency for Iran, the Houthis’ primary ally, to immediately cease its support for the group. He warned of severe repercussions if American security were threatened, asserting, “America will hold you fully accountable and, we won’t be nice about it!”
In response to the U.S. strikes, Iranian military commanders have declared the Houthis operate independently and issue their own strategic decisions. Iranian Revolutionary Guards Commander Hossein Salami issued a warning, stating that any actions taken against Iran would provoke a strong and destructive response.
The U.S. strikes have targeted various Houthi assets, including radars and missile systems, and are part of a broader strategy to protect international maritime routes. Secretary of State Marco Rubio commended the actions, asserting a commitment to guard American interests and maintain freedom of navigation in global waters.
The Houthi movement had escalated its maritime assaults, launching over 100 attacks since November 2023, claiming it was an act of solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The hostilities resumed after a temporary cease-fire ended last January, with Houthi leaders warning further action if the Israeli blockade on Gaza was not lifted.
The military campaign against the Houthis signifies a significant escalation in U.S. involvement in the Yemeni conflict amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The recent actions have resulted in substantial casualties and reflect the complex interplay of regional politics involving Iran and Israel. The United States aims to protect its interests and ensure maritime security, while the Houthis remain resolute in their operational strategies, threatening further escalations if their demands are not met.
Original Source: www.haaretz.com
