Recent U.S. airstrikes in Yemen have killed senior Houthi leaders, signaling a shift in military strategy under the Trump administration. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz emphasized holding Iran accountable for supporting the Houthis. The attacks aim to protect maritime shipping routes and prevent future threats. The ongoing military campaign will continue until the Houthi threat is neutralized, with potential implications for U.S.-Iran relations.
U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz announced that recent U.S. airstrikes in Yemen eliminated several senior Houthi leaders, although the exact number of casualties remains unspecified. Reports suggest six officials were killed, but these claims lack independent verification. The strikes were characterized by Waltz as the most extensive to date, demonstrating a stark contrast to the limited operations conducted under President Biden, which primarily aimed to deter imminent threats to maritime traffic.
Waltz emphasized that the current military actions represent a decisive response, intentionally holding Iran responsible for its support of the Houthi group. The backing from Iran has reportedly empowered the Houthis to disrupt vital maritime trade routes, particularly since the beginning of the conflict in Gaza. He noted, “Iran should hear clearly the message from Washington to stop aiding the Houthis.” Furthermore, he underscored that all options, including potential strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, remain viable.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that U.S. operations would persist until the Houthi threat to maritime traffic ceases completely, declaring, “This will continue until they say, ‘We’re done shooting at ships.'” He reiterated that the purpose of the strikes is not to intervene in Yemen’s civil war but to safeguard crucial shipping routes. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment, confirming there is no plan for a ground operation in Yemen.
The air offensive commenced on Saturday night with extensive strikes on Houthi-controlled regions, reportedly resulting in numerous civilian casualties. Initial figures from Houthi officials claimed at least 31 deaths and over 100 injuries. The Wall Street Journal detailed that the air campaign has three specific goals: to destroy Houthi missile launchers, eliminate leadership, and send a warning to Iran.
The Houthis have since taken measures to relocate their missile capabilities underground in response to the strikes, while they maintain their support for Palestine. They declared their intention to continue actions against Israel and have threatened retaliation, potentially impacting shipping in the Red Sea. Shortly after the U.S. operations began, reports emerged that Houthi leaders were instructed to evacuate key locations out of fear of further U.S. targeting.
Trump officially announced the airstrikes, stating, “The Houthi attack on American vessels will not be tolerated,” reinforcing a commitment to using force until objectives are met. He has explicitly demanded Iran to cease its support for the Houthis and warned of dire consequences for threats made against the U.S. or global shipping lanes.
The U.S. airstrikes in Yemen mark a significant escalation in military responses against the Houthi movement, reflecting a strategic shift under the Trump administration. By targeting Houthi leadership and emphasizing accountability for Iran, the U.S. aims to secure maritime trade routes and deter future threats. The ongoing offensive demonstrates the administration’s resolve to address regional security concerns while clarifying that actions are not aimed at intervening in Yemen’s internal conflict. The potential for broader conflict remains as the Houthis vow retaliation and continue their support for Palestine amid U.S. military actions.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
