U.S. Launches Airstrikes on Houthi Targets
In a significant escalation, the United States launched airstrikes on Yemen under President Donald Trump’s orders, targeting key Houthi military sites. According to American officials, the strikes were carried out using fighter jets from the USS Harry Truman in the Red Sea, hitting radar systems, air defenses, and missile launch sites. These attacks come in response to Houthi threats against international shipping in the Red Sea, particularly Israeli-linked vessels. However, the Houthis claim the strikes targeted civilian areas, resulting in the deaths of 13 civilians and injuring 9 others.
🔗 Source: Reuters – U.S. Launches Strikes on Yemen
Houthis Condemn “American Aggression” and Promise Retaliation
Following the strikes, the Houthi political office issued a statement denouncing the attacks as “American-British aggression.” The group vowed to respond with force, declaring they would meet escalation with escalation. Houthi officials linked the U.S. airstrikes to Washington’s broader support for Israel, stating that the strikes were an attempt to suppress Yemeni support for Palestine. Meanwhile, a Houthi spokesperson dismissed U.S. claims about maritime security threats, calling them a pretext for further intervention in the region.
🔗 Source: Al Jazeera – US hits Yemen’s Sanaa over Israel attack threats
Trump Administration Warns of Weeks-Long Military Operations
The Trump administration has signaled that the airstrikes are just the beginning of a sustained military campaign. U.S. Central Command confirmed that operations will continue “as long as necessary” to protect maritime security and deter Houthi attacks on international shipping. Reports from major U.S. media outlets indicate that Washington anticipates a counteroffensive from the Houthis, which could further escalate tensions in the region. Analysts suggest that the situation could spiral into a prolonged conflict, with both sides unwilling to back down.
🔗 Source: The New York Times – Trump Orders Attacks on Militant Sites in Yemen and Issues a Warning to Iran
🔗 Source: CNN – U.S. Response to Houthi Threats
Conclusion
As the situation unfolds, Yemen faces a new wave of instability with the potential for a broader conflict. The U.S., under President Trump, remains firm in its stance against Houthi threats, while the Houthis have signaled their readiness to escalate. With tensions rising in the Red Sea, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether this confrontation will be contained or evolve into a prolonged military engagement.
