The US has executed five strikes on Houthi targets in Hodeidah, Yemen, amidst acknowledgment of limited impact on the terror group’s capabilities. Concurrently, Iran appears to be withdrawing support for the Houthis to avoid direct confrontation with the US. This underscores the ongoing instability in the region.
The United States conducted five airstrikes on Houthi positions within the port city of Hodeidah, Yemen, as reported by Israel’s public broadcaster KAN, referencing local Houthi sources. This action follows a series of previous strikes against the Houthi terror group by the US, with the most recent prior incident occurring on Tuesday. Earlier in March, Yemeni reports indicated that 24 airstrikes targeted Houthi-controlled areas, including 14 strikes specifically in Sana’a, the capital.
The Houthis recently launched two ballistic missiles towards Israel; however, these were intercepted by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) before reaching their destination. Another missile, aimed at Israel, was reported to have fallen in Saudi Arabia during its trajectory. This series of events highlights the ongoing volatility in the region as Houthis continue their aggressive operations.
According to a report from The New York Times, US officials have privately acknowledged that the effectiveness of airstrikes against the Houthis has been limited, as their underground arsenal remains largely intact. This acknowledgment contrasts with public statements made by former President Donald Trump who claimed the Houthis had been severely weakened. Although the White House announced the elimination of a key Houthi missile expert, the US military did not confirm this information or release his identity.
Concurrently, an Iranian official conveyed to the Telegraph that Iran is recalibrating its support for proxy groups, including the Houthis, in response to the challenges posed by the Trump administration. As a result, Tehran has reportedly instructed its forces to withdraw from Yemen, leaving the Houthis isolated amid increasing US strikes, in an effort to evade direct military conflict with the United States.
In summary, the recent US airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen’s Hodeidah region indicate a continuing conflict. The US has expressed limitations in the effectiveness of these actions, while Iran appears to reconsider its military support for the Houthis. The evolving dynamics highlight the complexities of the ongoing situation in Yemen and broader regional tensions.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
