Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that U.S. airstrikes on Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen are critical for global security and shipping. Announced by President Trump, the air campaign aims to deter attacks on naval vessels. The operation is set to continue until the Houthis are no longer a threat, with no plans for ground raids at this time.
On Sunday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended recent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, emphasizing their role in protecting global shipping and U.S. military interests. “We are doing the entire world a favor by getting rid of these guys and their ability to strike global shipping. That’s the mission here, and it will continue until that’s carried out,” Rubio stated during an interview on “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.”
President Trump announced these airstrikes on Saturday, pledging to utilize “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis cease their assaults on shipping. U.S. Central Command confirmed the strikes through a social media post, indicating the campaign may extend over weeks based on the Houthis and Iran’s reactions. Recently, the Houthis have disrupted critical transit routes in the Red Sea, escalating tensions following their pledge to attack Israeli vessels.
Rubio highlighted the sustained threat posed by the Houthis, stating they have conducted numerous attacks on both U.S. naval vessels and commercial shipping, likening them to a “band of pirates” armed with advanced weaponry. “That’s just not sustainable,” he remarked, noting that the strikes aim to deny the Houthis a foothold in critical shipping lanes.
The secretary confirmed that the air campaign will persist until the Houthis can no longer threaten maritime security, although he clarified there are no current discussions regarding ground raids. He asserted that recent operations have already neutralized key figures involved in missile launches and targeted Houthi facilities. “We’re not going to have people sitting around with the missiles attacking the U.S. Navy. It’s not going to happen. Not under President Trump,” he concluded.
In summary, Secretary of State Marco Rubio supports the U.S. airstrikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen, viewing them as essential for global security. The actions aim to eliminate the threat to global shipping and U.S. military interests, with ongoing operations expected until the Houthis can no longer perform such attacks. The campaign signifies a robust response and aims to restore safety in vital shipping lanes.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
