US President Donald Trump has initiated large-scale military strikes against Yemen’s Houthis in response to their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, resulting in significant casualties. The operation signifies the largest US military involvement in the region since Trump took office and marks a transition to a more aggressive stance towards Iran. The Houthis have condemned the strikes and plan to escalate their military actions accordingly.
On Saturday, US President Donald Trump initiated extensive military strikes against Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi forces, targeting their recent attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. Reports indicate that at least 24 individuals were killed in the initial phase of this campaign, with expectations that operations may continue for several days. Trump has urged Iran to cease its support for the Houthis and warned that the US will respond aggressively to any threats to its interests.
The strikes signify a significant escalation in US military involvement in the Middle East, marking the largest operation since Trump’s tenure began in January. This initiative coincides with intensified sanctions against Iran, aimed at compelling Tehran to engage in negotiations regarding its nuclear program. Trump issued a severe warning to the Houthis, stating, “YOUR TIME IS UP, AND YOUR ATTACKS MUST STOP, STARTING TODAY.”
The toll following the strikes has risen to at least 31 fatalities and over 100 injuries, predominantly affecting women and children. The Houthi political bureau condemned the actions as a “war crime” and articulated readiness to escalate their military response. Eyewitness accounts highlighted the magnitude of explosions that reverberated throughout Sanaa, a Houthi stronghold, causing panic among residents.
Strikes also targeted critical infrastructure, such as a power station in Dahyan, leading to power disruptions. The Houthis have been linked to numerous assaults on maritime vessels since November 2023, jeopardizing international trade and prompting the US to bolster its military presence in the region. A Pentagon spokesperson reported that the Houthis have launched 174 attacks on US warships and 145 on commercial ships over the past year.
Reports suggest that Trump’s administration has opted for a more aggressive military strategy compared to the previous administration, which attempted to diminish Houthi capabilities with limited engagement. The recent operations involved fighter aircraft from the USS Harry S. Truman, emphasizing the US commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation amid rising tensions.
Iran’s Foreign Minister has criticized US actions, insisting that Tehran has the right to persist in its regional policies. Following the recent strikes, the Houthis signaled their intention to resume hostilities against Israeli vessels, contributing to heightened unrest in the region. Trump’s administration’s actions are perceived as a multifaceted approach to address Iranian influence, while recent developments suggest growing domestic discontent within Iran regarding economic conditions.
In summary, President Trump’s decision to launch extensive military strikes against the Houthis in Yemen underscores a significant shift in US foreign policy in the region. The strikes aim to deter further Houthi aggression against maritime targets while simultaneously sending a strong message to Iran. The ongoing situation highlights the complex interplay of military actions, geopolitical tensions, and the humanitarian implications of warfare in Yemen. As these developments unfold, the international community remains attentive to the responses from Iran and the Houthis.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
