In a major development, a coalition led by the United States and supported by the United Kingdom launched a series of heavy airstrikes in Yemen, targeting Houthi rebels. The move comes as a response to alleged disruptive attacks by the rebels on Red Sea trade routes in recent weeks.
Yemeni authorities have pledged retaliation, with Houthi Deputy Foreign Minister Hussein Al-Ezzi stating, "Our country was subjected to a massive aggressive attack by American and British ships, submarines, and warplanes." He warned that "America and Britain will have to prepare to pay a heavy price and bear all the dire consequences of this blatant aggression."
Reports indicate that the airstrikes focused on key locations, including an airbase, airports, and a military camp. Houthi television channel Al-Massirah reported strikes on the capital Sanaa, as well as the cities of Hodeida and Saada.
U.S. officials revealed that the retaliatory strikes employed Tomahawk missiles launched from warships and submarines, along with fighter jets. President Joe Biden emphasized that these actions aim to demonstrate that the U.S. and its allies "will not tolerate" the continuous Houthi attacks on the Red Sea. Biden clarified that the decision followed diplomatic efforts and careful consideration.
This military response marks the first from the U.S. amid a reported ongoing campaign of drone and missile attacks on commercial ships, particularly since the Israel-Hamas war. The coordinated assault by the U.S. and the UK occurred just a week after a final warning was issued to the Houthis by the White House and its partner nations, urging them to cease attacks or face potential military action.
The recent escalation in the Middle East crisis, rich in oil resources, follows Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea. While the rebels claim their actions are in defense of Palestinians in Gaza against Israel, it's observed that many targeted ships had tenuous or no direct connection to Israel.
In response to the Houthi threat, U.S. and British forces reportedly intercepted 18 drones and three missiles in the Red Sea, describing the attack as "complex Iranian-designed." The situation remains tense as global attention focuses on the repercussions of these airstrikes and the potential for further escalation in the region.
UK, US Forces Intercept 21 Houthi Drones and Missiles Targeting Red Sea Shipping Lanes
