Escalation of Conflict: New US Strikes Spark Protests in Yemen

Huthi media recently reported new US strikes on Yemen, following major protests against earlier bombings by US forces. Tens of thousands took to the streets in support of the rebels and in defiance of American influence. Despite ceasefire efforts, the conflict persists with ongoing military actions from both the US and Huthis, significantly impacting maritime trade and humanitarian conditions in the region.

Huthi media reported new US strikes on Yemen following significant protests against previous bombings aimed at the Iran-backed rebel group. Demonstrators, numbering in the tens of thousands and brandishing weapons, rallied in Sanaa with chants such as “Death to America, death to Israel!”. Large crowds also gathered in Saada and other regions, emphasizing their defiance against US and Israeli influence.

The protests occurred after President Donald Trump ordered US strikes in response to Huthi harassment in the Red Sea, resulting in the deaths of 53 individuals and injuries to 98. Al-Masirah and Saba press agency broadcasted reports of ongoing strikes in Hodeida and Al-Salif regions. The Huthis linked their attacks on shipping to solidarity with Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict.

On Monday, the Huthis declared they struck the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier group, although there was no response from the United States. Washington is committed to continue strikes until the rebels cease their campaign against maritime activities in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with President Trump warning of employing “overwhelming lethal force”.

In Sanaa, under Huthi control since 2014, demonstrators displayed large Yemeni and Palestinian flags during protests at Al-Sabeen Square. The US strikes represented the first military action since Trump’s inauguration, coinciding with a recent pause in Huthi attacks. US officials indicated that bombings would persist until a cessation of the rebels’ operations and hinted at actions against Iran, the Huthis’ backer.

Further reports indicated explosions targeting a cotton facility in Hodeida, alongside accusations of strikes on the cargo ship Galaxy Leader. The United Nations has urged both the US and Huthis to cease military activities, calling for a reduction in hostilities. Meanwhile, China has advocated for dialogue and negotiation to de-escalate tensions in the region.

Despite a lull in Huthi claims of attacks in the Red Sea since the Gaza ceasefire, the group is prepared to escalate its operations as a response to perceived aggression. US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz stated the strikes targeted multiple Huthi leaders, a claim not addressed by the rebels. Trump warned that “hell will rain down upon you” if Huthi hostilities continued and held Iran accountable for their actions.

Data from ACLED revealed that there have been 136 Huthi attacks on maritime targets since mid-October, impacting global shipping routes significantly. The conflict, ongoing since 2015 with Saudi-led coalition intervention, has resulted in severe humanitarian crises. Despite a ceasefire in 2022, recent escalations from Huthi forces following Gaza attacks have stalled the peace process.

In conclusion, recent US strikes on Yemen have coincided with massive protests by the Huthis, reflecting escalating tensions between the US and the rebel group. As demonstrators rally in support of their cause, the situation remains precarious amidst ongoing military actions and threats from both sides. The humanitarian ramifications continue to grow as the conflict disrupts vital maritime trade routes and exacerbates the humanitarian crisis affecting Yemenis.

Original Source: homenewshere.com