The recent U.S. offensive in Yemen has resulted in at least 31 fatalities and considerable injuries, targeting Houthis in response to their assaults on Israeli maritime routes. President Trump has urged Iran to cease support for the group, while Iranian officials maintain the Houthis’ autonomy. The strikes mark a decisive military action amid ongoing regional tensions.
At least 31 individuals have died and 101 have been injured following a U.S. offensive against Houthi targets in Yemen, as reported by the Houthi health ministry. This military action, announced by President Donald Trump, responds to the Houthis’ resumed assaults on Israeli shipping in Yemeni waters, which are connected to Israel’s blockade on Gaza aid.
President Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, the primary supporter of the Houthis, demanding an immediate cessation of its backing for the group. He stated, “America will hold you fully accountable and we won’t be nice about it!” In his communication on Truth Social, he characterized the operation as “decisive and powerful,” reminding the Houthis that their time is running out and their aggression must end.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ Commander Hossein Salami remarked that the Houthis operate autonomously, emphasizing their capability to make independent strategic decisions. He cautioned that Iran would respond with significant force if any threats were carried out against them.
The U.S. strikes have reportedly targeted key Houthi infrastructure, including radars, air defense systems, and missile facilities. These operations, deemed the most substantial military engagement during Trump’s second term, are anticipated to continue for several days, according to senior U.S officials.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed that Trump’s actions conveyed a strong message against the Iranian-backed Houthis, reiterating that attacks on U.S. vessels and international shipping must cease to ensure accountability and protect navigation freedom.
Following a series of over 100 attacks aimed at shipping since November 2023, the Houthis had temporarily suspended activities correlating with a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, their leader indicated a readiness to resume strikes against Israeli vessels if the blockade on Gaza was not lifted within four days. The blockade was reinforced on March 2 as tensions escalated over the truce negotiations.
This article highlights the recent escalation of violence in Yemen following U.S. military strikes against the Houthis. With significant casualties reported and a strong response from both U.S. officials and Iranian commanders, the situation in the region remains tense. The ongoing conflict underscores the complex interplay between regional actors and international interests, with humanitarian implications amidst geopolitical struggles.
Original Source: www.haaretz.com
