U.S. airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen resulted in at least 18 civilian fatalities. President Trump ordered these strikes to counter attacks on shipping routes. The Houthis vowed retaliation, while Trump emphasized protecting American maritime interests and addressing Iran’s role in the conflict.
The Houthis have reported that at least 18 civilians were killed following a series of U.S. airstrikes ordered by President Donald Trump. These strikes targeted stronghold areas of the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group in Yemen over the weekend. Trump has emphasized that he will deploy “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis cease their attacks on commercial shipping in key maritime routes.
In a communication via Truth Social, Trump remarked on the U.S. military’s engagement in “aerial attacks on terrorists’ bases, leaders, and missile defenses” designed to protect American maritime assets and ensure “navigational freedom.” He also admonished Iran, holding the country accountable for its proxy forces in the region.
This escalation follows a recent letter from Trump to Iranian officials, proposing new discussions regarding Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, which he intends to prevent from becoming operational. Reports indicate that airstrikes primarily affected the capital, Sanaa, and the Houthi stronghold of Saada, resulting in casualties and extensive damage.
Images on social media depicted significant smoke over Sanaa’s airport complex, indicating the severity of the attacks. According to the Houthi-run health ministry, 13 fatalities occurred in Sanaa and five in Saada, with many more wounded. Houthi officials, including Nasruddin Amer, have vowed to retaliate against U.S. forces, asserting that they will remain steadfast in their opposition.
This offensive comes shortly after the Houthis declared their intention to resume assaults on Israeli vessels in the Red Sea in response to recent blockade efforts targeting Gaza. Despite heightened tensions, no Houthi attacks have been reported in the interim, though their prior engagements had led to attacks on over 100 merchant vessels during the ongoing conflict.
In summary, the recent U.S. airstrikes against the Houthi rebel group led to significant civilian casualties and sparked retaliatory threats from Houthi officials. President Trump’s declaration of “overwhelming lethal force” highlights a proactive stance against the Iran-backed group amidst ongoing regional conflicts. The situation remains fluid, especially as Houthis indicated intentions to target Israeli maritime assets, emphasizing the broader implications of these hostilities on international trade and regional stability.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
