U.S. Military Launches Strikes Against Houthi Militants in Yemen

President Trump has ordered substantial air and naval strikes against Houthi militants in Yemen, targeting areas controlled by the Iran-supported group. This military escalation aims to thwart Houthi attacks on international shipping and serves as a warning to Iran. The action marks a shift from previous policies under the Biden administration regarding the Houthis’ designation as terrorists, raising regional tensions.

In a significant escalation of military engagement in the Middle East, President Donald Trump has authorized extensive air and naval strikes against Houthi militants in Yemen, targeting numerous locations affiliated with the Iran-backed group. Analysts view this as a test of U.S. resolve toward Iran, which is perceived to finance the Houthi insurgents. The operations aim to disrupt the Houthis’ ongoing assaults on international shipping within the Red Sea, with strikes affecting radar systems, air defenses, and drone facilities across Yemen, including in the capital city, Sanaa, where local residents reported substantial explosions.

President Trump announced his directive via Truth Social, stating, ‘Today, I have ordered the United States Military to launch decisive and powerful Military action against the Houthi terrorists in Yemen.’ He condemned the group for engaging in ‘an unrelenting campaign of piracy, violence, and terrorism’ against U.S. allies, pledging to utilize ‘overwhelming lethal force’ until their attacks cease.

Additionally, Trump delivered a stern admonition to Iran, emphasizing, ‘Support for the Houthi terrorists must end immediately! Do not threaten the American People.’ Since seizing control of much of Yemen in 2014, the Houthis have reported civilian injuries in Sanaa’s Shouab district, claiming a residential area was affected during the strikes. The group had briefly ceased hostility amid a recent ceasefire in Gaza but threatened to recommence attacks on Israeli vessels following a blockade.

U.S. authorities have characterized these military actions as unilateral, differing from the collaborative efforts with the UK and Israel under the previous Biden administration. This offensive follows Trump’s January designation of the Houthis as a ‘foreign terrorist organization,’ reversing Biden’s prior delisting. This strategic operation is interpreted as an effort to protect vital shipping routes and a warning to Iran amid stalled nuclear negotiations, potentially heightening regional tensions.

The United States has intensified military actions against Houthi militants in Yemen under President Trump’s recent command. Amid ongoing concerns regarding Iran’s support for the Houthis, these strikes serve as a strategic maneuver to protect shipping lanes and deliver a warning to Tehran. As the situation develops, the impact on regional dynamics and U.S.-Iran relations remains a critical focus for analysts and officials alike.

Original Source: euroweeklynews.com