In a coordinated military operation, the United States and the United Kingdom conducted air strikes against Houthi rebel targets in Yemen. The move comes in response to a series of attacks by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels on ships in the Red Sea since November, according to President Biden.
The strikes, described as “targeted” by the Royal Air Force, were executed with the support of warplanes from the UK. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak characterized the action as “limited, necessary, and proportionate” in self-defense.
President Biden revealed that the Netherlands, Australia, Canada, and Bahrain played a supportive role in the mission. The international collaboration underscores the gravity of the situation and the shared concerns about Houthi aggression.
The Houthi deputy foreign minister issued a stern warning, stating that the US and UK would “pay a heavy price” for what he deemed “blatant aggression.”
Reports indicate that the air strikes targeted key military facilities in various locations, including the capital Sanaa, the Houthi Red Sea port of Hudaydah, Dhamar, and the north-western Houthi stronghold of Saada.
The Houthi rebels, who control significant portions of Yemen, have justified their actions by claiming support for ally Hamas and targeting shipping destined for Israel. The situation adds a complex layer to the ongoing conflict in Yemen, with international actors now directly involved in response to Houthi provocations.
As the situation unfolds, global attention remains focused on the region, with concerns about the potential escalation of hostilities and the impact on the already fragile security landscape in Yemen.
