On Saturday, President Donald Trump announced a series of airstrikes targeting Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. This military action aims to counter Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, who have reportedly escalated attacks on shipping operations along critical maritime routes.

Details of the Airstrikes

In a statement on social media, Trump declared, “Our brave Warfighters are right now carrying out aerial attacks on the terrorists’ bases, leaders, and missile defenses to protect American shipping, air, and naval assets, and to restore Navigational Freedom.” The president emphasized a commitment to using “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis cease their assaults on shipping.

The Houthis have reported that the airstrikes resulted in significant civilian casualties, claiming at least 18 individuals were killed, including 13 in the capital, Sanaa.

Response from Houthi Leaders

In response to the airstrikes, Houthi officials asserted that such acts would not deter them and vowed to retaliate against U.S. forces. Nasruddin Amer, the deputy head of the Houthi media office, stated, “Sanaa will remain Gaza’s shield and support and will not abandon it no matter the challenges.”

Another Houthi spokesman, Mohamed Abdulsalam, criticized Trump’s assertion that the group poses a threat to international shipping, labeling it as “false and misleading.”

Background of Recent Hostilities

The escalation follows a warning from the Houthis, indicating their intention to resume attacks on Israeli vessels in the Red Sea as a reaction to Israel’s blockade on Gaza. Prior to the ceasefire in Gaza, the Houthis had launched over 100 attacks against merchant vessels, resulting in failed security measures and increased tensions in the region.

U.S. Military Strategy

U.S. officials indicated that these strikes represent a broader strategy to address ongoing threats from the Houthis. The USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group, which includes multiple Navy vessels, is currently positioned in the Red Sea as part of the mission.

This operation marks the first airstrike on Houthi forces since Trump assumed the presidency for a second time. Previous administrations had conducted similar airstrikes in response to Houthi hostility against shipping lanes.

Current Situation and Reactions

In the aftermath of the airstrikes, residents of Sanaa reported widespread fear and destruction, with accounts describing the explosions as akin to an earthquake. Reports suggest that the airstrikes hit both military sites and civilian neighborhoods, exacerbating humanitarian concerns.

As the situation develops, observers continue to monitor the potential repercussions for U.S.-Iran relations, especially following Trump’s recent outreach to Iranian leaders regarding their nuclear ambitions.