U.S. Strikes in Yemen Target Houthi Leaders Amidst Rising Tensions

U.S. airstrikes in Yemen have reportedly killed several senior Houthi leaders, according to National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. The strikes, described as extensive, aim to neutralize Houthi threats to maritime trade and hold Iran accountable for its support of the group. The operation is ongoing, with U.S. officials asserting they will continue until the threat to international shipping is eliminated. Trump has issued strong warnings to both the Houthis and Iran regarding their actions.

Recent U.S. airstrikes in Yemen have resulted in the elimination of several senior Houthi leaders, as confirmed by National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. While he refrained from disclosing the exact number of casualties, media reports suggest that six high-ranking officials may have been killed. The strikes, characterized as extensive and different in nature from previous actions under the Biden administration, were intended to disrupt Houthi threats to maritime trade routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Waltz articulated that the current operations signify a decisive response against the Houthis, emphasizing the need to hold Iran accountable for its support of the group. He warned Iran that failure to cease assistance to the Houthis would not go unanswered and affirmed that all options concerning Iran’s nuclear facilities remain on the table. His statements reflect the administration’s commitment to preventing a scenario where Iran possesses nuclear capabilities.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth supported this stance, asserting that operations against the Houthis will persist until the maritime threat they pose is eliminated. He specified that the intent is solely to safeguard shipping routes while not interfering in the broader Yemen conflict. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated this approach, ruling out a ground operation and emphasizing the air campaign’s objectives.

The offensive initiated on Saturday night involved coordinated strikes targeting Houthi leadership, missile launchers, and key sites in Sanaa, with a focus on dismantling the network threatening global trade. Following the attacks, reports indicated Houthi leaders were evacuating and relocating their assets to underground facilities amidst fears of further U.S. strikes. The Houthis have threatened retaliation, insisting that their support for Palestine remains unwavering despite the offensive.

Former President Donald Trump publicly announced the military operation on his platform, asserting a zero-tolerance policy against Houthi attacks on American vessels. Trump criticized past responses under Biden as weak, threatening severe consequences for continued aggression from the Houthis and their Iranian backers. His firm remarks outlined a clear message of accountability towards the region’s actors involved in these conflicts.

In summary, the recent U.S. airstrikes in Yemen have targeted senior Houthi leaders, representing a significant escalation in U.S. military strategy aimed at curbing Houthi threats to maritime safety. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that the campaign seeks to eliminate risks to international shipping while holding Iran accountable for its support of the Houthis. The administration’s commitment to a decisive military response underscores its broader strategies concerning regional security and diplomatic negotiations.

Original Source: www.ynetnews.com