President Trump has ordered extensive air and naval strikes against the Houthis in Yemen to combat their ongoing threats to international shipping in the Red Sea. The U.S. military actions mark a unilateral shift from previous collaborative efforts, signaling increased tensions with Iran, the Houthis’ backer. Civilian casualties have been reported amidst the extensive strikes targeting military assets of the Houthis.
In a significant escalation of military actions in the Middle East, President Donald Trump announced large-scale air and naval strikes against Houthi militants in Yemen. These attacks target numerous locations under the control of the Iran-supported group and are aimed at diminishing their ongoing assaults on international shipping in the Red Sea. The strikes have reportedly affected radars, air defenses, and missile systems nationwide, with substantial explosions reported in the capital, Sanaa.
President Trump publicized the military action via his Truth Social account, stating, “Today, I have ordered the United States Military to launch decisive and powerful Military action against the Houthi terrorists in Yemen.” He condemned the Houthis for their violent actions against American and allied maritime interests, promising to employ “overwhelming lethal force” until threats are neutralized.
Furthermore, Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, the Houthis’ chief supporter, asserting, “Support for the Houthi terrorists must end immediately! Do not threaten the American People.” The Houthis, in control of much of Yemen since 2014, reported civilian casualties due to the strikes, claiming a residential area was directly hit. This comes after the group indicated intentions to renew targeting of Israeli vessels due to the blockade in Gaza.
U.S. officials clarified that these strikes were unilateral, marking a departure from prior joint operations with allies like the UK and Israel during the Biden administration. The offensive follows Trump’s previous designation of the Houthis as a “foreign terrorist organization,” a shift from their earlier status under Biden.
Analysts view this military action as a tactical maneuver to safeguard shipping routes and a direct message to Iran amid stalled nuclear negotiations, intensifying the area’s already high tensions.
In summary, the U.S. military has initiated a series of significant strikes against Houthi militants in Yemen, aiming to curtail their threats to maritime security. The unilateral nature of these operations highlights a shift in U.S. defense policy under President Trump, marking a new phase in U.S.-Iran relations. The resulting escalations could further destabilize an already volatile region, particularly as tensions involving Israel and Gaza evolve.
Original Source: euroweeklynews.com