Trump Commands Military Strikes on Houthis in Yemen, Conflict Escalates
President Trump launched extensive military strikes against Yemen’s Houthis in response to their attacks on Red Sea shipping, resulting in at least 31 deaths. This operation marks a significant escalation in US military involvement, with ongoing threats to Iran and a focus on restoring freedom of navigation. The Houthis have vowed to retaliate and continue their attacks on vessels.
On Saturday, US President Donald Trump initiated extensive military strikes against Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis in response to their escalation of attacks on Red Sea shipping. Initial reports indicate that these operations have resulted in at least 31 deaths among civilians, including women and children, as confirmed by a Houthi health ministry spokesperson. The strikes are part of a sustained campaign anticipated to last several days.
Trump issued a stark warning to Iran, urging it to cease backing the Houthis. He stated unequivocally, “America will hold you fully accountable and, we won’t be nice about it!” This campaign marks the most significant US military action in the Middle East since Trump took office, coinciding with increased sanctions against Tehran amid efforts to renegotiate its nuclear ambitions.
In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump declared, “YOUR TIME IS UP, AND YOUR ATTACKS MUST STOP, STARTING TODAY.” The Houthis’ political body condemned these actions as a “war crime.” They vowed to meet escalation with similar measures, indicating their readiness for further conflict in light of the strikes.
Reports from residents in Houthi strongholds in Sanaa described intense explosions resembling an earthquake, which caused widespread panic among locals. So far, strikes have targeted multiple areas, including a power station in Dahyan that led to electricity outages and various Houthi military sites in Taiz.
The US military’s Central Command confirmed that the strikes are the beginning of a wide-scale operation against the Houthis. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reiterated the US position, stating that Houthi attacks on American vessels and forces would not be tolerated while emphasizing freedom of navigation.
The Houthis have increasingly disrupted global shipping through attacks on vessels, prompting the US military’s involvement. Data reveals they have targeted US warships 174 times and commercial crafts 145 times in the past year alone. Previously, the Biden administration had sought to minimize potential Houthi threats but did not fully engage militarily.
The strikes were executed primarily by fighter jets from the US aircraft carrier Harry S. Truman stationed in the Red Sea. Trump hinted at even greater military operations if attacks continue, asserting that the US will utilize overwhelming force until objectives are met. The Houthis have pledged to resume attacks on Israeli ships while Iran has denied the legitimacy of the US’s actions.
The military strikes initiated by President Trump against Yemen’s Houthis represent a significant escalation in US involvement in the region and highlight ongoing tensions with Iran. With mounting casualties and the potential for extended military operations, the situation remains volatile. The strikes aim to counter Houthi threats to maritime security but also exacerbate existing conflicts, influencing regional dynamics and global shipping routes.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
