Trump Launches Military Strikes Against Yemen’s Houthis Amid Rising Tensions

President Trump initiated military strikes against Yemen’s Houthis over attacks on shipping, resulting in significant casualties and raising U.S.-Iran tensions. The operation aims to deter Houthi aggression while pressuring Iran regarding its nuclear program.

On Saturday, President Donald Trump initiated extensive military strikes against Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis due to their threats to Red Sea shipping, resulting in at least 24 casualties. Trump also issued a stern warning to Iran, demanding an end to its support for the Houthis, stating that any threats to the U.S. would be met with significant repercussions.

The military operation, described as the largest U.S. engagement in the region since Trump assumed office, is part of a broader strategy to increase sanctions on Iran and compel negotiations regarding its nuclear ambitions. Trump utilized social media to convey a message directed at the Houthis, declaring that their attacks would no longer be tolerated.

Reports indicate that the strikes have left at least 31 individuals dead, with significant injuries occurring among women and children. The Houthi leadership condemned the attacks as “war crimes,” vowing a strong military response to the escalation. Residents described the violence as overwhelming, comparing it to an earthquake.

The strikes reportedly targeted multiple locations, including Houthi strongholds and military sites, leading to significant disruptions, such as power outages. The Houthis have been active in launching attacks against vessels since November 2023, which has stirred U.S. military responses aimed at protecting commercial shipping interests.

U.S. officials have noted an increase in Houthi aggression toward American warships, citing numerous attacks since the beginning of the year. The Houthis claim that their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts involving Israel and Hamas.

The U.S. military employed fighter aircraft from the USS Harry S. Truman during the strikes, marking a significant escalation in American military operations in Yemen. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that such attacks would not be tolerated and asserted that freedom of navigation must be restored in the region.

In response to these developments, Iran’s Foreign Minister criticized U.S. intervention in Iranian foreign policy matters, urging the end of support for actions against the Yemeni populace. The Houthis indicated plans to resume assaults on Israeli vessels following a ceasefire that began in January.

Simultaneously, the U.S. administration sought to engage Iran diplomatically regarding its nuclear program, which has faced skepticism from Western nations concerning potential military dimensions.

Efforts to communicate with Russia were also made, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio reached out to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov about the strikes, highlighting geopolitical complexities as Russian reliance on Iranian military support continues to evolve during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

In summary, President Trump’s military strikes against Yemen’s Houthis mark a significant escalation in U.S. military involvement in the Middle East, provoking sharp responses from both the Houthis and Iran. These actions come amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear program and its support for militant groups. The high civilian casualties, particularly among women and children, raise serious humanitarian concerns as the conflict unfolds.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com