US Launches Air Strikes on Houthi Rebels in Yemen

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The United States has initiated a series of air strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, following a surge in attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. President Donald Trump called the airstrikes a "decisive and powerful" response to the escalating violence, which he attributed to the Iran-backed group’s piracy and terrorist activities.

In a statement, Trump emphasized that the Houthis’ attacks on U.S. aircraft and vessels posed a significant threat to American troops and allies, costing billions of dollars. The airstrikes, which targeted the rebels' strongholds in Sanaa and Saada, have reportedly resulted in at least 31 deaths and over 100 injuries according to Houthi health officials.

The Houthis have vowed retaliation, maintaining their stance of supporting Palestinians in the Israel-Hamas conflict and claiming to target only ships linked to Israel, the U.S., and the UK. However, their actions have led to major disruptions in global shipping routes, with significant commercial vessels rerouting around southern Africa to avoid the Red Sea.

The U.S. has reiterated its commitment to stopping these attacks, with Trump warning the Houthis of severe consequences if they continue their actions. Meanwhile, the Iranian government has condemned the U.S. intervention, with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi calling for an end to U.S. involvement in the region.

The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that ongoing attacks on U.S. military and commercial vessels will not be tolerated. He also voiced concern about the Houthis’ increasing aggression in the region. Meanwhile, Russia has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to political dialogue to prevent further bloodshed.