The U.S. conducted substantial airstrikes against senior Houthi leaders in Yemen, marking a decisive departure from previous military strategies. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz emphasized the intention to eliminate the maritime threat posed by the Houthis, while demanding Iran’s cessation of support to the group. The military operation aims not only to target Houthi leadership but also to convey messages to Iran amid escalating tensions.
The United States has launched a significant military operation targeting the Houthi movement in Yemen, resulting in the deaths of several senior leaders within the group, as confirmed by U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. Although the precise number of casualties has not been disclosed, initial reports suggested the fatalities included at least six prominent officials. This operation represents a departure from previous U.S. actions under the Biden administration, aiming for a more decisive rather than limited military response.
Waltz articulated that the airstrikes were essential in addressing the Houthi threat, particularly related to their maritime activities in the Red Sea. He asserted that Iran’s backing of the Houthis has contributed significantly to the disruption of vital trade routes, emphasizing the need for Tehran to curtail its support. Furthermore, the National Security Adviser did not dismiss the possibility of strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities if negotiations failed to progress.
Continuing the narrative, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that military actions would persist until the Houthis cease all attacks on international shipping. He clarified that these operations are not aimed at influencing Yemen’s internal civil conflict but solely at protecting vital maritime routes from Houthi aggression. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that no ground operations are currently planned in Yemen, reiterating the focus on airstrikes.
The offensive began on a Saturday evening with widespread aerial attacks on Houthi-controlled regions, particularly in Sanaa, resulting in claims from the group of substantial civilian casualties. U.S. sources reported that the mission has specific objectives: dismantling missile launching capabilities, eradicating Houthi leadership, and sending a clear message to Iran. The Houthis have reacted defiantly, vowing to continue supporting Palestine despite the U.S. strikes, now repositioning their missile caches to avoid detection.
The strikes prompted fears within the Houthi leadership, leading them to evacuate key personnel from potential targets. Reports indicate that military operations in the Al Bayda area have resulted in the deaths of multiple military officials. Meanwhile, the Houthis assert that American interventions will not deter their objectives and have signaled potential escalatory responses. President Trump, announcing the operation, maintained a firm stance against both the Houthis and Iran, urging immediate cessation of hostilities and promising severe consequences for any continued aggression.
In summary, the U.S. airstrikes against the Houthi leadership in Yemen mark a strategic shift intended to neutralize threats to international shipping and to hold Iran accountable for its support of terrorism. The offensive aims to not only dismantle the Houthi capabilities but also to convey a significant deterrent message to Tehran. Moving forward, the situation remains fluid, with the Houthis vowing to continue their campaign despite U.S. military actions, indicating a complex and ongoing conflict in the region.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
