The US conducted five airstrikes on Houthi targets in Hodeidah, Yemen. Local reports indicate previous significant airstrikes in March. US officials privately doubt the effectiveness of the strikes due to the Houthis’ untouched underground arsenal. Iran is reportedly scaling back support for Houthis, aiming to avoid confrontation with the US.
On early Sunday, the United States executed five airstrikes targeting Houthi assets in the port city of Hodeidah, as reported by Israel’s public broadcaster KAN, citing local Houthi accounts. This marks the latest offensive since US Central Command’s last reported strikes against the group on Tuesday. In late March, Yemeni media indicated a significant escalation, with 24 airstrikes over Houthi-controlled areas, including 14 strikes concentrated in the capital, Sana’a.
This recent bout of strikes follows a series of missile attacks initiated by the Houthis toward Israel, which were intercepted by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). A previous missile launched by the Houthis fell in Saudi Arabia during its trajectory towards Israel. Despite these military actions, reports suggest that the effectiveness of US strikes has not met expectations, with officials acknowledging that the Houthis’ underground stockpile remains largely intact.
Contrary to President Donald Trump’s assertions that the Houthis have been “decimated,” the Pentagon has not substantiated these claims, notably regarding the death of a key Houthi missile expert. Just prior to these confirmations, a senior Iranian official disclosed that Iran is recalibrating its support for its regional proxies, including the Houthis, to navigate the threats posed by the Trump administration, emphasizing that it is now Tehran’s primary concern.
Reports indicate an ordered withdrawal of Iranian forces from Yemen as the Houthis face ongoing US strikes. Authorities suggest that this shift aims to mitigate the risks of a direct military confrontation with the United States. Reuters has contributed to the information provided in this report.
In summary, the recent US airstrikes on Houthi positions in Hodeidah reflect an ongoing conflict strategy against the group. Despite these military endeavors, US officials privately express concerns regarding their overall impact. The changing dynamics of Iranian support for the Houthis further complicate the situation, as Tehran adjusts its regional strategy in light of perceived threats from the current US administration. The conflict continues to evolve amid these challenges.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
